(Washington, DC)  The Department of Employment Services (DOES) is hosting the 2008 Summer Youth Program Registration and Career Expo on Friday, February 29, 2008 at the Walter Washington Convention Center, located at 801 Mt. Vernon Place, NW.  The exposition of summer employers and training providers will be held from 10 am to 4 pm.  Young adults, ages 14 – 21, who are interested in summer employment are urged to register early for summer jobs.

This year, more than 14,000 young residents are expected to register for work experience and academic enrichment activities through the DOES Passport-to-Work Summer Youth Program. The 2008 summer program will operate for ten weeks beginning June 16 through August 22.   Participants, ages 14 -21, will have an opportunity to acquire basic professional work skills.  Young adults assigned to work at District and federal government agencies, and non-profit organizations are paid a federal minimum wage rate of $5.85 per hour.  Student applicants competing for private and selected federal government positions, may work up to 40 hours a week and earn up to $12 an hour, depending on previous work experience and job responsibilities.

Registering participants must complete the 2008 Summer Youth Application and a signed parental Certification and Consent Form, if under age 18, and submit documented proof of District residency, date of birth, citizenship/permanent residency, and a Social Security Card. 

The 2008 Summer Youth Program is a component of the Department of Employment Services’ Passport-to-Work Youth Program, which ensures that District youth are consistently developing the skills and aptitude necessary to succeed in a competitive labor market.  For additional information on the 2008 Summer Youth Program, contact the Department of Employment Services’ Office of Youth Programs at does.dc.gov, click on Youth Services, or call (202) 698-3991.