Low income teens getting job opportunities in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - 18-year-old Augustine Jilote is up bright and early working at the Unity Shoppe in Santa Barbara. 

“I like giving out and helping the community for those in need and it’s truly heartwarming to see different families come here," said Jilote.

Thanks to Goodwill and Unity shoppe, the two organizations created “Job Smart” a program where teens can intern in a variety of job positions.

“Allows youth 16 to 24 to get work placement training … we also work with adults with developmental disabilities as well," said volunteer coordinator Priscilla Hernandez.

Job Smart allows teens to select an interview outfit which includes shoes and undergarments, as well as a referral to resume development assistance. 

"Adults with disabilities … often they don’t get the chance because they’re so young or maybe they don’t have the correct background and they need that chance," said Hernandez.

“My hope is this partnership grows stronger and it grows in terms in terms of how many youth were able to help not only placing youth at Unity shoppe but also being able to receive services from Unity shop potentially county wide," said supervisor Celest Mendoza of Goodwill Mission Services.

"When they leave us they will be ready for the work force and get a job," said Hernandez.

In addition to job training, participants also get a paycheck earning $20 per hour and community service hours.

"So much to do here … processing service deliveries … I do a lot of customer service out in the front and back here … I even help out new volunteers … it’s awesome sharing knowledge," said Jilote.

For more information on Job Smart, visit: https://unityshoppe.org/.