Businesses & Mentors

YouthWorks for Businesses

YouthWorks is Central Iowa’s only year-long high school internship program—and it’s built on strong partnerships with local businesses. Together, we help prepare the next generation of professionals while strengthening our community and your workplace.

When you become a YouthWorks business partner, you’re doing more than offering a job. You’re providing a student with hands-on experience, mentorship, and a place to grow. In return, you gain early access to emerging talent, a stronger workforce pipeline, and the opportunity to shape future leaders.

Timeframe

9-month paid internship

Competencies

Social-Emotional Intelligence, Work Ethic and Accountability, Career Exploration and Personal Vision, Professional Communication, Problem Solving and Adaptability, and Technical and Digital Skills

Work Hours

School year: Monday–Thursday, 2–5 p.m.
Summer: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

You fund a paid, nine-month internship that provides hands-on experience for a high school senior.

You provide mentorship, pairing interns with experienced professionals who offer guidance, support, and industry insights.

You help bridge the gap between education and employment, opening doors for students from all backgrounds.

You become part of a powerful network of businesses investing in the next generation of Iowa’s workforce.

The YouthWorks team handles intern recruitment, as well as training for interns and their mentors at your company, and payroll alleviating the administrative burden on your company.

Mentorship

Each intern is thoughtfully matched to an appropriate role at your company and paired with a mentor from your team. Mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and day-to-day support, helping interns build professional skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. In return, your team gains a meaningful leadership development opportunity—strengthening coaching skills, fostering empathy, boosting employee engagement, and reinforcing a workplace culture rooted in growth and community investment.

Support from YouthWorks Staff

You won’t be doing it alone. YouthWorks staff meet with interns weekly, provide additional training and coaching, and are available to support mentors and business partners throughout the program.

The Impact

By partnering with YouthWorks, you’re not just offering an internship—you’re fostering confidence, career readiness, and long-term success for students who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities. In return, your business benefits from fresh perspectives, engaged young talent, and stronger community connections.