Provides alcohol and drug treatment, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), licensed counseling, domestic violence education and intervention programs, and support services for families impacted by addiction. Youth programs include summer camp, UCANN Serve and UCANN Lead programs for ages 11-17 to experience mentorship and civic engagement, Urban GEMS science and gardening after-school program for ages 12-19, and two scholarships per year for youth ages 17-22 pursuing higher education. The organization was founded by and centers the African community but serves all regardless of race, gender, disability, or economic status.
1409 East Livingstone Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 253-4448
apdsinc.org
A mentoring program for ages 14-18 attending Independence, Walnut Ridge, Whitehall Yearling High Schools or who have had contact with the Juvenile Court system. They offer homework help, life skills training, and paid workforce development programming.
4117 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43227
(614) 745-0007
all-that.org
A One-to-One Friendship program creating social inclusion and friendships for people with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities. Programs take place at middle schools, high schools, colleges, and online across Ohio. The Leadership Development program empowers people with or without IDD to become leaders, public speakers and advocates.
PO Box 45353, Westlake, Ohio 44145
(614) 928-3383
bestbuddies.org/ohio
Free workforce readiness training and career coaching for Columbus residents ages 18 and older. Classes are offered monthly and cover skills like resume writing and interviewing to help boost your career. The class prepares participants to interview for full-time employment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital or employer partner with wages starting at $18/hour. The class is available at two locations:
(614) 722-2750
nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/population-health-and-wellness/healthy-neighborhoods-healthy-families/workforce-development/boost
Nationally-acclaimed after-school and summer programming for youth ages 5-18. Programs are oriented around Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Character & Leadership, and Mental Health & Wellbeing. Club members have access to tutoring, sports, teen-specific areas, career-readiness opportunities, leadership opportunities, and mentoring. Go online for a full list of locations, including Newark and 3 Marion Clubs in Ohio. Some clubs are hosted at schools at are open only to students enrolled at those schools. Columbus Clubs open to the community are listed below:
(614) 221-8830
bgccentralohio.org
A voluntary program for young adults who left foster care in Ohio at age 18-21 and who are in school, working, participating in an employment program, or have a medical condition that prevents them from going to school or working. Participants are matched with a Bridges Liaison who can help with setting goals and accessing services, such as help with housing, education, employment, and well-being. Liaisons work with participants to meet their unique, individual needs as they transition to adulthood. Fill out the online application or call your region’s office.
Apply Online Here: oca.socialsolutionsportal.com/apricot-intake/0d5dba79-b9fa-4ae6-9477-943ed3540ed0
Main Website: jfs.ohio.gov/child-and-adult-protection-foster-and-adoption/services-for-families-and-children/bridges/overview
Career Technical Schools offer training programs that can prepare students for the workforce or college degree programs. Career-Technical Education (CTE) is available at every public school in the state of Ohio free of tuition. High school students should check with their home school district to see what CTE school they are eligible to attend, and for transportation options. Students may attend CTE schools for half-day or full-day programs to continue extracurriculars or classes at their home school. Program pathways typically include healthcare careers such as nursing, information technology, automotive services, welding, cosmetology, graphic design, and others. Check with each CTE school to see what programs they offer. Many CTEs offer adult education programs such as free diploma and GED programs, career certificates, and personal enrichment classes.
List of Ohio Career Technical Centers: highered.ohio.gov/about/ohios-campuses/career-technical-education/career-technical-education-ohio-technical-centers
Columbus City Schools Career-Technical Education: Serves high school juniors and seniors in the Columbus City Schools district. Adult & Community Education offers programs for health occupations, skilled trades, computer applications, high school equivalency, and free ESL/ESOL classes.
Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools: Offers programs for high school juniors and seniors in Franklin, Fairfield, and Pickaway counties. Programs for adults include GED, ESL/ESOL, STNA, HVAC, and welding. Employability Prep is a personalized, transitional program for Franklin County students ages 16-21 with learning differences to receive hands-on training at community job sites. They offer free summer day camps for Grades 6-8 to experience hands-on learning.
4300 Amalgamated Place, Groveport, Ohio 43125
High School: (614) 836-4530
Adult Workforce: (614) 836-4541
Summer Camp: (614) 836-4530
eastlandfairfield.com
Delaware Area Career Center (DACC): Offers a variety of career-readiness opportunities for middle school and high school students on their campus and through satellite programs. They offer summer day camps for rising 7-9th grade students in Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley, Delaware City, Olentangy, Worthington, and Westerville school districts. Adult Education includes free adult diploma, GED, ESL/ESOL, and personal enrichment classes.
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 548-0708
delawareareacc.org
South-Western City Schools Career Tech: For junior and senior high school students in South-Western City School District. They also offer free adult workforce development courses in the evenings for HVAC, Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA), auto maintenance, and more.
4750 Big Run South Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 801-3400
swcsdcareertech.com
Tolles Career & Technical Center: Serves Dublin, Fairbanks, Jonathan Alder, Hilliard, London, Madison-Plains, and Jefferson school districts. Adult educational opportunities include free ESL, GED, STNA EMT, personal enrichment classes, and more.
7877 U.S. Highway 42 South, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 873-4666
tollestech.com
A division of AmeriCorps, City Year Columbus places full-time mentors in under-resourced Columbus City Schools to help students graduate and reach their full potential. Individuals ages 18-25 with a high school diploma/GED and a desire to serve youth in the community can apply to be a City Year Americorps Member. Members receive a paid stipend, benefits, are eligible for education awards, and receive career and leadership training. Visit the website to learn more and apply.
350 East First Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 586-4520
cityyear.org/columbus
Offers a variety of free education programs for youth and adults. Adult classes include literacy (financial, workplace and technology literacy), citizenship classes, GED test preparation, and language (ESL/ESOL, Spanish, ASL).They also provide career coaching, supportive services for life transitions or re-entry to the community, supportive services for immigrants and New Americans, and help with utilities. Youth programs include MARVEL*US after school program for TANF-eligible youth ages 5-13, AMP for ages 16-18, and Pathways to Promise for youth ages 13-15 at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.
(614) 282-7661
clcworks.org
Workforce development initiative for youth ages 14-23. Participants gain paid work experience with Columbus city departments and local businesses. Youth development specialists provide linkage to support services and mentorship to ensure participants’ success. Applications typically open in February for summer placements. Visit the website to apply and find additional contact information.
columbusrecparks.com/youth-success/apps
A community‐based organization that works to empower Black and urban communities through economic, educational and social progress with programs, classes and services. Their many programs include:
788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org
Provides workforce training for ages 16-24 in partnership with Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services. The program includes career training, job and post-secondary education assistance, industry-recognized certification and supportive services. Services are free for those that meet TANF income-eligibility guidelines. Call for program and application details.
100 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 221-3398, ext. 101
eckerd.org/region/oh
Provides professional development for schools and direct student services to improve student learning. Services include technical assistance and professional training for educators, school districts, after school programs, and community organizations. Their office oversees alternative education programs, interpreter services, experiential learning opportunities, supports for students experiencing homelessness, supports for students with disabilities, workforce development programs, gifted programs, and more. Visit the website for a full list of programs and registration details.
2080 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 445-3750
escco.org/Services.aspx
Youth mentoring and empowerment organization. They offer Eryn PiNK and Boys of ICE programs for boys and girls at participating schools. Mentorship programs are available through referral from Franklin County Job and Family Services. The EPIC High School program is a year-long immersive experience for boys and girls in leadership, academics, and social growth for a small fee. Applications for EPIC High School open in August. The organization also offers summits, events, and conferences for youth and adults in the community.
460 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 706-4215
erynpink.com
Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), case management for victims of domestic violence and more. Youth programs include after school tutoring, Pathways 2 Success paid work training program for ages 16-18, wraparound coaching and support services for ages 14-18, scholarship opportunities, and summer camp.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org
Offers career development programs and life coaching services. They offer programs for teenagers and adults ages 15 and older. Programs take place at various schools and organizations across Columbus. Contact the organization for details.
845 Claycraft Road, Suite F and G, Gahanna, Ohio 43240
(614) 804-6200
expandingvisions.net
Provides community programming for families on the South side of Columbus. Programs include a free fresh market, urban gardening, cooking classes, family fitness classes, access to healthcare through OSU Wexner Medical Center Community Care Coach and family gatherings. FACCES Life Ready Urban Gardening Class is a free, weekly program for youth to learn about how to grow their own food, careers in agriculture, and environmental stewardship. They offer additional Afterschool programs and an Afterschool Cafe with free meals for children ages 1-18. Call or go online to register your family for programs.
2515 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, OH 43207
(614) 319-6070
Current Program Bulletin Board: canva.com/design/DAGMY8TT25I/ZTzIlPG1mkJlVENPYa3Mog/view
Website: thefacces.org
Provides life-skills training, career exploration, college readiness, wellness management, and direct mentorship opportunities for girls, women, and families. GHRO Your Future offers academic and leadership development for girls ages 12-18 through bi-weekly workshops. Applications typically open in August. Femergy Chica Camp is a free week-long, overnight summer camp for middle and high school girls. They also offer professional development opportunities for women. The Femergy Center offers a space for professional and personal events, a co-working space, and Zen room for families and entrepreneurs.
49 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 653-8454
femergy.org
Offers family-friendly exhibits and classes in gardening, cooking, fine art, and wellness for all ages. Check the online Calendar for upcoming events and classes, which are sometimes free. General admission is free on the first Sunday of the month for Community Day. Active or Retired service members get $1 off each ticket. SNAP, EBT, WIC and Medicaid recipients get tickets for $3 each with ID and proof of participation. Visit the website for a full list of Admission Discount programs. Programs for youth include Homeschool days, Summer Camps for ages 3-8, and Teen Corps paid summer work experience for ages 13-18.
1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org
Offers a comprehensive work training program for young adults to help revitalize the Franklinton neighborhood of Columbus and break cycles of poverty. Young adults ages 17-24 can apply for the program. The program includes paid training and work experience in construction. Participants also receive individual mentorship, driving lessons and help with transportation, career support, and support services.
4653 Trueman Boulevard, Hillard, Ohio 43206
(614) 581-4125
franklintonrising.org
Offers free, online coding clubs from beginner to advanced for girls, women, and non-binary people. Their website also has free, downloadable activities from beginner to advanced for anyone to learn coding at home. Their summer programs for high school students include a 2-week intensive immersion experience with financial assistance available, or a free 6-week self-paced option. Free and in-person clubs are available throughout the country at various schools and community locations, visit the website to find a club near you.
girlswhocode.com
Offers a variety of free work readiness programs. Adult programs include GED preparation, ESL/ESOL, Career Bridges customer service training, and technology classes. Youth programs include after school homework help, mentoring, and career exploration for grades 9-12. Blue Bow Tie offers professional catering services while providing job opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment. Camp Mary Orton offers summer camp experiences for youth ages 6-14, team building retreats, and venue spaces with proceeds supporting Godman Guild programs.
P.O. Box 8100 Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-5476
godmanguild.org
Non-profit offering mediation, violence intervention services, and mentorship. Develops healthy conflict resolution styles and productive work skills for youth and adults with a history of violent behavior or previous incarceration. If you or someone you know has a problem or conflict in your community that could result in unnecessary violence, call them to see if they can help. They also provide housing assistance for adults who are employed and have a felony criminal record.
East Columbus: 923 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
West/Hilltop: 2360 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 302-1640
haltviolence.org
This teaching garden is located in the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus. They offer garden tours, field trip experiences and donation-based produce bags for pick-up. Hilltop families can sign up for a garden bed kit with everything needed to grow an edible garden in their backyard, including access to a Garden Mentor to help get the most from their garden. They also offer Garden Club (a free weekly after-school program for Grades K-6), Green Teens (a paid summer work program for youth ages 14-19) and a low-cost Summer Camp for ages 6-13.
67 South Highland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 653-8263
Español: (614) 407-4540
highlandyouthgarden.org
Provides income-based case management services, emergency assistance services, financial services, computer literacy and workforce development programs. Most of the programs are for Franklin County residents living at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Level. Visit the website or call for more information.
Southside: 711 Southwood Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43207
Westside: 4129 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43228
impactca.org
AMP website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov/amp
Provides work readiness, educational enrichment, and youth development in Franklin County. They provide after-school programs at Bridge Gate Community School, Franklinton High, West High, New Albany High, Groveport-Madison High, Horizon Science Academy, The Charles School, and The Graham School. Programs are free for income-eligible families. Their Student Support Program provides hygiene items and food to students 16-21. The 6-week summer program provides paid work development experiences for Franklin County residents ages 16-21. Career pathways for the summer program include construction, medical, logistics, IT, social media, and more; and culminates with job placement.
215 North Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
General Inquiries: (614) 915-0434
Enrollment: (614) 965-8392
leadthewaylearningacademy.org
Job shadowing opportunities allow students to spend time with a healthcare professional, see the work duties performed, and observe interactions between staff and patient families. High school students cannot participate in hands-on care. All shadow and internships for high school students must be coordinated by the school. NCH also provides paid work opportunities for youth and young adults ages 16-24 during the summer season.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0678
Paid Summer Work Experience: nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/population-health-and-wellness/healthy-neighborhoods-healthy-families/workforce-development/youth-employment-program
Shadowing Information: nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/courses-for-parents-and-kids/student-education-opportunities/job-shadowing-and-internships
Is the juvenile corrections system for the state of Ohio. DYS is statutorily mandated to confine felony offenders, ages 10 to 21. DYS is organized into several divisions that perform or support agency functions including legal services, community engagement and reentry, resources for families and more.
Central Office: 4545 Fisher Road, Suite D, Columbus, Ohio 43228
(614) 466-4314
dys.ohio.gov
Relink Resource Guide: relink.org
Free employment services for all ages, working and unemployed. The website has articles with tips for job searching, free online training modules for math and reading, GED prep, and computer skills; and resources for veterans, senior citizens, and previously incarcerated people. Job Centers offer help finding a job, free access to computer lab, technology training, help for employers, and more. Services and availability vary by location, use the website to find a Job Center near you.
Columbus-Franklin County Job Center: 1111 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 559-5052
Ohio Means Jobs Columbus-Franklin County: omjcfc.org
Ohio Means Jobs State Website: ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/omj/home
A paid summer internship program for rising high school juniors and seniors interested in exploring welding engineering. High-school students are matched with graduate students and assist with an ongoing research project in an engineering laboratory, and give a capstone presentation at the end of the program. Interns are expect to work up to 24 hours per week with a flexible schedule. Applications are generally available in winter and due in February.
1248 Arthur E. Adams Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43221
(614) 292-1182
ma2jic.osu.edu/resources/osu-summer-internship-program
Provides free trauma-informed, culturally-relevant after-school and summer programs to help teens in Franklin County reach their full potential. Programs include paid job skill & training opportunities, one-on-one mentorship and leadership training, and teen nights. They also host events for parents and community members. Go online to apply.
(614) 342-0505
ruurbanlegends.org
A paid summer work experience for 15-18 year-olds to gain hands-on experience in urban farming. Participants receive a stipend for working in the Franklin Park Conservatory Community Garden for 8 weeks, and sell the produce they grow at the Conservatory’s Farmer’s Market. Students learn about gardening, cooking, customer service, and more. Participants must have a Columbus address or attend at Columbus City School to qualify, and complete an application and interview process.
Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: 1777 East Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org/education-programs/outreach-programs/teen-corps
Empowers youth in Columbus through equity and justice, bridge building, empowerment, belonging and fun. Programs include Guns DOWN group for ages 13-24 and Unleashing Potential for ages 18-24 navigating the criminal justice system. The Guns DOWN group meets weekly at multiple locations across Columbus and provides teens with opportunities to learn, talk, and have fun while accessing resources like job opportunities, conflict resolution, and more.
(614) 259-7226
tmlyouth.org
Federally-funded career development program for Social Security disability beneficiaries ages 18 through 64 who want to work. Provides free employment services to help participants decide if working is right for them, prepare for work, find a job, or maintain success while working. Participants receive services such as career counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and job placement and training from authorized Ticket to Work service providers, such as Employment Networks (EN) or your State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency.
(866) 968-7842 or (866) 833-2967 TTY
choosework.ssa.gov
Offers skilled trades programs to empower youth in Columbus, Ohio. After school programs include a 5-week financial literacy course, and Working Class for 11th and 12th graders to learn concrete labor and earn weekly stipends. Project Genesis is a paid summer employment program for youth ages 14-18. Youth are matched with a worksite based on their area of interest and location, and gain hands-on experience working alongside industry professionals. The Gen II Gen is a 12-week program for ages 18-24 to receive job training, worksite experience, and a certification of completion to use for job placement. All programs are free for participants, and include a shirt, water bottle, and all tools needed for the worksite. Visit the website to register.
(614) 623-0561
tradesoffaith.org
Website for youth to find resources, opportunities, and inspiring stories that empower them to make a difference in their lives and in the world around them. The website has a searchable directory with opportunities across the country for internships, scholarships, professional development, and volunteering. The Topics section of the website has helpful toolkits, blog posts written by teens, and important information on topics like mental health, relationships, disabilities, foster care, finances, and more.
instagram.com/youthengaged4change