EMPOWER
A GAP PROGRAM AT SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH

WORK EXPERIENCE PLUS TRAINING FOR OUT OF SCHOOL YOUTH (18-24)

PREPARATION FOR YOUR FUTURE

 

The EMPOWER program is a structured, three-month employment/work experience/educational opportunity designed for Out of School Youth (OSY) who are 18 to 24 years old and who have had little or no full-time work experience. Applicants for EMPOWER must be referred to the program by an existing youth-oriented program, such as YouthBuild®, etc.

During the three-month work experience program period, EMPOWER participants work full-time (40 hours on the job plus four hours in training per week) at the YMCA of the Rockies - Snow Mountain Ranch, a four-season, family resort. In addition to attending workshops and training designed to prepare them for a rewarding career and earning pay for time spent on the job, participants receive all meals, lodging and other benefits.

Application Deadline

January 14, 2019

Session Start Date

February 25, 2019

Session End Date

May 24, 2019

WHAT PARTICIPANTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT EMPOWER

  • Customer Testimonails

    I was a participant in a YouthBuild program. My case manager and I both agreed that Snow Mountain Ranch’s work experience program was what I needed. I have not regretted my decision

    Dewayne, YouthBuild Louisiana
  • Customer Testimonails

    There were few opportunities for me at home. Snow Mountain Ranch not only has given me a place to live and meals, it has given me a chance to learn while I earn a few bucks.

    Coby, Title 1 Participant Louisiana
  • Customer Testimonails

    This place has been a great place to learn different perspectives and gain a sense of responsibility.

    Torriane, YouthBuild St. Louis
 
How does the EMPOWER Program work?
EMPOWER participants work an average of 40 hours per week in either Food Service or Housekeeping at Snow Mountain Ranch, and spend four hours per week in training. Participants that successfully complete the program may be eligible to stay on as YMCA employees for up to four additional months.
Will I receive training while at Snow Mountain Ranch?
EMPOWER participants receive 30-40 hours of structured training modeled after the KET Workplace Essential Skills Program. These classes are taught by Snow Mountain Ranch professional staff. Participants will receive Basic First Aid and CPR training; additional training classes may be scheduled based on the participant’s need and interest.
What can participants expect to gain from the EMPOWER Program?
EMPOWER has been designed to assist successful participants to learn the skills, attitudes and values needed in the world of work, so that when they return to their community they are able to secure meaningful employment. In addition, because participants earn a wage for their work and training, they can leave with funds that can assist in their new career or educational pursuit. Participants have also reported secondary rewards such as learning about different cultures and diversity, learning how to manage their daily lives (washing clothes, cleaning room, reporting to work on time, etc.), learning to be responsible for their behavior (time management, personal responsibility, interpersonal relations, etc), traveling (often for the first time on public transportation like an airplane) and being exposed to a beautiful area of the United States.
What does the program cost?
There is no fee to this program. However, the applicant is responsible for the cost of transportation to and from Snow Mountain Ranch. Participant wages, room, meals, fringe benefits and employee benefits (like free skiing and snowboarding at several Colorado resorts) are provided by Snow Mountain Ranch as a condition of their employment.
Who do I contact with questions or for more information?
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the Gap Program Supervisor, Alyssa Villafranco, at avillafranco@ymcarockies.org or 970-887-2152 x4119.
What is the YMCA of the Rockies policy concerning Drugs and Alcohol?
In accordance with our healthy spirit/mind/body mission and federal law, YMCA of the Rockies has a zero tolerance policy for alcohol or drugs on property. Additionally, no drug use is tolerated (including marijuana) by employees whether on- or off-duty. Because the State of Colorado has legalized recreational marijuana (and it is easily obtained in the county), employees will be challenged daily. Be aware that Snow Mountain Ranch reserves the right to drug test applicants and employees. So, if an applicant wants to use marijuana, they should not apply to the EMPOWER program.

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