The Job Connection
The Job Connection is Available Year-Round!
Download a Youth Application or an Adult Registration Packet:
We are still accepting Youth Applications for our waiting list- you’ll be contacted to sign up for an orientation session (pre-registration required) when another is planned.
For more information or to have an adult registration packet sent to you, please contact Tovah Marek with LAYSB at 651.464.3685 or tovah.marek@ysblakesarea.org or Andria Sterbentz with FLASCE at 651.982.8328 or asterbentz@flaschools.org.
Program Description:
Lakes Area Youth Service Bureau & Forest Lake Area Schools Community Education offers adults 55+ and/or disabled living in Forest Lake a way to get ahead on house and yard work. Check off those tasks on your “to do” list by getting help to clean out your garage, mow the lawn, rake leaves, shovel snow, or other chores where a helping hand would be nice.
Youth can assist with almost any type of chore in homes or yards. This is a great way to get affordable help while giving adults a chance to connect with youth in the community.
Benefits to Adults
Get affordable help
Make a difference to a youth
Cross off items on your to do list
Free up your time
Requirements of Adults
Be 55+ and/or disabled
Live in Forest Lake
Fill out a registration form
Negotiate time & pay with youth
Benefits to Youth
Get job experience
Recommendation letters
Make a difference to someone in need
Earn some spending money
Requirements of Youth
Be 12-17 years old
Have transportation to jobs in Forest Lake
Fill out an application form
Attend a training with a parent/guardian
Comments From Participants:
From Seniors…
“The youth that worked with me were very nice kids. They had a great outlook and were fun to talk to; I really enjoyed when they came. I think the youth learn quite a bit while working, too. They learn certain things about planting and landscaping, for example, things they will be able to use in their future.”
“The youth helped me with planting in my garden and moving around dirt and plants. They also helped me clean out my garage so it feels organized again. I am not able to do many of these things on my own, so it was really helpful to have the youth there.”
“I have one girl working for me. I think it is a very helpful program and plan to use it in the future.”
From Youth…
My Friend Bill: Read one youth participant’s essay about his experience with the Job Connection
“What I liked most was the friendship I formed with the senior.”
“I learned to do my best and that the seniors are only as old as they want to be.”
“It was fun working for the seniors, they are really nice! The woman I worked for gave me snacks while I helped her and her son. She taught me things about landscaping that I didn’t know. She taught me things I can remember when I have my own yard.”
From a Parent…
“My kids learned patience, compassion, and the importance of good work while working with the senior residents.”
