YWCA Quad Cities Pre-Apprenticeship Program is equipping local youth for career success!
Photography has become more than a hobby for Evangelina Martinez; it’s a passion.
“I enjoy finding little moments to capture, and I think pictures have a big importance. They stay with you forever,” said Evangelina.
Thanks to YWCA Quad Cities Pre-Apprenticeship Summer Program, she’s been able to develop both her photography skills and her career readiness this summer.
Heading into her junior year of college, Evagelina wanted work experience but struggled to find an internship.
“I think for my age, it can be hard, the whole trying to find a job,” she said.
She’s not alone. Finding employment, especially for young people, can be challenging due to various factors, one of them being a lack of experience.
“The job application process is an endless cycle of needing experience to get experience, leaving youth feeling discouraged and hopeless,” explained Lexy Larson, Grant Specialist & Program Manager for the YWCA Quad Cities.
That’s where the Pre-Apprenticeship Summer Program comes in. Now in its second year, the 13-week initiative offers full- or part-time paid employment for Illinois youth ages 16–24. YWCA funds all student wages, making it easier for employers to participate and support the next generation of the local workforce. The first few weeks of the program emphasize professional development, including resume and cover letter writing, job readiness training, and career exploration. Participants also gain essential life skills—such as budgeting, understanding insurance and employee benefits, and how to open a bank account—through engaging workshops and guest speakers.
This summer, 25 youth are participating, placed at 13 local businesses and nonprofits, including Brews Energy Drinks, Hauberg Estate, Unity Point Health – Trinity, LaJames, Camp Excel, The King Center, STEAM on Wheels, Rustic Barber Shop, Miss Brimani’s, Skylark Studio, and the YWCA Quad Cities itself.
Evangelina was matched with Moira Kelly Photography, a placement that proved to be the perfect fit.
“She’s been teaching me so much,” said Evangelina. “I’ve learned how to build up my business and look at photography in a whole new way.”
The program’s track record is promising. Last year, 12 students received permanent job offers from the organizations where they trained.
Our program allows youth to gain 180 hours of work experience in various fields, making them stronger candidates for employment, allowing them to earn some money, and creating lasting pathways for success,” Larson said.
For Evangelina, the program has done more than just build her skills; it’s renewed her optimism.
“I feel grateful having people like the YWCA who want to help us succeed, not just in life, but in finding a career and developing our skills,” she said.
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