Local college seniors have until June 30 to apply for the 2024-25 positions.
Local college seniors can apply for 50 paid City internships through the second round of the Long Beach Public Service Corps.
The fellowship program launched last year to connect students to roles in local government, nonprofit management and public service by partnering with multiple City departments. Participants will gain practical experience and develop hands-on skills for various “in-demand occupations,” according to a statement from the City.
Students at Cal State Long Beach, Cal State Dominguez Hills and Long Beach City College with a senior standing or 30 completed units at LBCC are invited to apply by June 30. Long Beach Public Service Corps applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 30 before the first day of the program, which will run from October 2024 to May 2025.
“We are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders in public service,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “The Public Service Corps program provides college students with a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in our community while gaining invaluable real-work experience. Paired with wraparound services and job counseling, this program is changing the way we offer workforce development opportunities for our residents.”
The 50 students chosen for the program will work alongside professionals, learn the inner workings of local government, contribute to City projects and have a direct impact on the Long Beach community. Participants will also be invited to developmental workshops with topics such as public service, budgeting, community engagement, crisis management, sustainability, ethics and policy.
The Long Beach Public Service Corps is intended to foster economic inclusion by developing career paths for local youth.
Those interested can learn more about the program information at longbeach.gov/psc and submit their application online.
“This program is a critical investment in the next generation of public service leaders. Members earn money, gain valuable skills, and jumpstart their careers while providing meaningful service to the community,” said California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday in a public statement. “Paid service is empowering Californians to make a meaningful impact in Long Beach and across our state.”
Long Beach’s Department of Economic Development’s Pacific Gateway Workforce Innovation Network is leading the program with the Department of Human Resources.
Pacific Gateway oversees the management of the program on behalf of the City, including case management, payroll coordination and supportive wraparound services such as transportation assistance, clothing vouchers, rental assistance and utility payment assistance, to ensure participants have the flexibility and a foundation of support to participate in the program successfully. Participants will also receive follow-up services such as job counseling, employment placement and access to industry-recognized training to support their long-term career goals.
A virtual informational session about the program will take place on Zoom Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m. at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84647271477.
The Long Beach Public Service Corps program is funded by a $2.5 million grant from the California Governor’s Office through their #CaliforniansForAII Youth Jobs Corps initiative administered by California Volunteers.
