YMCA Helping Individuals Retain Employment (HIRE)

Connecting Black young adults ages 16–24 with employment and education services.

APPLY NOW

Applications are due June 26, 2026

Connecting Black young adults ages 16–24 with employment and education services.

APPLY NOW

Applications are due June 26, 2026

About YMCA Helping Individuals Retain Employment (HIRE)

A man with glasses and slicked-back hair wears a black button-up shirt and a beaded necklace with a circular pendant, posing against a neutral gray background.

The YMCA of San Diego County and Paving Great Futures are eager to connect you with education and employment services to help you choose and pursue a career pathway.

YMCA Helping Individuals Retain Employment (HIRE) serves Black young adults ages 16–24 in San Diego County who are not in school and are experiencing barriers to employment.

While enrolled, you will receive exposure to careers in high-demand industries. You'll also have a chance to attend workshops, events and trainings, receive one-on-one support with program staff and participate in mentorship opportunities.

Additionally, you may also have an opportunity to gain paid work experience or internships in your chosen career field, and get access to additional programs to assist with housing instability, basic needs and career counseling.

What you get from the program

Paid Work Experience
Hands-on learning at a workplace for a limited time

Job Placement Assistance
Job search support, career advice and information about growing industries

Educational Services
Education assistance to achieve training and career goals

Work Readiness Training
Training on basic skills like teamwork and working under deadlines needed to get—and keep—a job

Supportive Services
Resources like transportation, childcare, or work supplies to help you complete the program

Eligibility requirements

Ages 16–24

Identifies as Black

Not in school

Unemployed or underemployed

Identifies having a barrier to employment and/or low income

How the program works

From enrollment to completing the program, here’s what you can expect at every stage:

Apply

Submit your application online (when applications are open)

Attend training

Engage in coursework and hands-on learning

Complete internships

Get real-world experience

Get certified and hired!

Receive job placement assistance

How to apply

Here is how to apply:

1. Begin your application (it takes 10-15 minutes)
2. Answer the supplemental questionnaire following your application
3. Wait for our team to respond about next steps

APPLY NOW

Applications are due June 26, 2026

Questions?

Email us at hello@workforce.org or call (619) 319-WORK (9675).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Medi-Cal Peer Support Training entail?

We offer live virtual 80-hour Medi-Cal Peer Support Training provided by NAMI San Diego over the course of 13 days from 8 a.m.–12 p.m., Monday through Friday. Participants will learn behavioral health skills covering the 17 peer support core competencies as identified by the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). The training will be led by Shannon Switzer, lead trainer and certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist. NAMI San Diego is a CalMHSA-approved training provider.

Topics covered include:

  • Recovery model
  • Communication skills
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Cultural competency
  • Medi-Cal Code of Ethics and more!

What is the application process?

When applications are open, the enrollment process includes an application form, which typically takes 10–15 minutes. After submission, you will be directed to respond to supplemental questions which will include submission of a resume and a written response of 100-250 words to each of the following questions:

  • Share your personal story: Tell us about your experiences with behavioral health challenges, specifically related to mental health or substance use.
  • Describe your recovery journey: How have you worked towards recovery? Highlight the techniques, strategies, and any people or resources that have been key to your progress.
  • Supporting others: How have you helped others in their own recovery journey? Share any ways you’ve provided support or guidance to those going through similar challenges.
  • Your goals for the program: What do you hope to achieve if you are accepted into this program? How do you think this opportunity will impact your professional growth?

What will I get from the program?

This program offers help:

  • With starting school or a certificate program
  • Finding a temporary job or internship
  • Finding a long-term job
  • Learning new job skills
  • Applying your lived experience to an in-demand career

Still have questions? Email us at hello@workforce.org or call (619) 319-WORK (9675).