A new report funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation explores how workforce development organizations build quality work-based learning opportunities for youth and young adults.

Unpacking the Work of Work-Based Learning, produced by the Aspen Institute, draws on the experiences of four organizations in the Casey Foundation’s Generation Work™ initiative — an effort that consists of local partnerships that are exploring new ways of helping young people, especially those of color, gain the knowledge and training needed to secure jobs that pay family-sustaining wages.

The publication describes how these four organizations — based in Indianapolis, Philadelphia and Seattle — have built work-based learning programs with employers and prepared young people for learning on the job.

Work-based learning — a broad term that includes various programs, such as apprenticeships, internships and summer-job initiatives — combines work experience with classroom learning so that participants can gain affordable, industry-recognized credentials and employment skills.

The report also notes the many steps that Generation Work partners take to identify suitable employer partners and build programs with them. They include:

  • Seeking out employers and occupations where work-based learning is feasible.
  • Determining whether employers can support young people.
  • Easing employer concerns and burdens when partnering on work-based learning.
  • Helping employers structure work-based learning opportunities.

Read the full article about work-based learning at The Annie E. Casey Foundation.