Urban youth training program

Employment status: Part-time 20 hrs. Urban ArtWorks is a Seattle-based c 3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to engage youth and communities in the creation of public art that inspires connections and honors their voices. Through our arts-based youth employment programs, community projects, and public art installations, our professional teaching artists facilitate opportunities for all people to have access to the transformative power of creating public art.

We are strongest when we embrace the creativity and diversity of the community we serve and believe that our deep commitment to cultural and racial equity is an investment in our mission and shared future. Urban ArtWorks is looking for someone who would be passionate about fostering our values of connection, anti-racism, expression, belonging, and integrity.

The projects are designed to not only help develop the youth, but to also develop the communities that they are from. In addition to working on various conservation and green infrastructure projects, they also receive a personal mentor, life coaching, entrepreneurship training and career counseling. The GYFted program is an intensive training program that has two tracts. The standard tract prepares youth for our 1-year Urban Youth Corps experience, while the GYFted Tree Care tract prepares youth to enter directly into the tree care industry.

The tree care industry is a very high demand, well-paying and rewarding field. However, it is not for everyone. One must be willing to work hard, get dirty, endure inclement weather, be punctual and work as a team. The Green Teens are also trained in long-term employability and life skills. Participants attend workshops on resume and cover letter writing, interviewing, financial literacy, and nutrition. Throughout the program, the youth meet professionals in the field, such as certified arborists and landscapers.

Each year, we hold three sessions of the Green Teens program.