LYNN — Mayor Jared Nicholson, Lynn Community Health Center CEO Brenda Rodriguez, MassHire North Shore Workforce Board Executive Director Ed O’Sullivan, and Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones gathered to discuss local youth employment opportunities following the announcement of the Youth Employment Gateway Cities Learning Community Pilot.
Jones announced the launch of the program from the Healey-Driscoll administration at Eastern Bank’s Market Street location during an inaugural youth-employment community forum on Tuesday.
With the program, the MassHire North Shore Workforce Board was given a grant of $75,000 to partner with Salem Hospital, Lynn Community Health Center, Lynn Workforce Collaborative, and others to develop approaches to youth engagement, employer partnerships, and career readiness.
“We know that investing in our youth and young adults is an essential part of our state’s strategy to develop pathways for our future talent and workforce. And it works, especially when we’re focused on removing systemic barriers we know often hinder workforce entry,” Jones said. “Youth workforce development is more than just a job. It’s about creating lifelong pathways to growth, equity, and opportunity. When young people engage in meaningful work, they gain confidence, skills, and networks that last a lifetime. I look forward to working with our partners on this pilot.”
At the convening, the community leaders discussed employer engagement strategies and next steps for municipalities and employers to expand equitable youth employment and work-based learning opportunities.
“The City of Lynn continues to see the tremendous impact that job placement has had on our youth,” Nicholson said. “We are grateful for this pilot launched by the Healey-Driscoll Administration and look forward to working with our partners. This initiative holds immense potential for our young residents as they develop their skills across sectors in our community.”
O’Sullivan voiced his high expectations for the program.
“MassHire North Shore is grateful for this pilot grant, which will allow us to strengthen youth employment pathways across Lynn, Salem, and the North Shore, connecting young people with meaningful work experiences that prepare them for long-term success,” he said. “This investment supports a truly collaborative model with our municipal leaders, community partners, and employers helping us build the infrastructure, employer engagement, and opportunities our youth need to thrive.”
Rodriguez gave insight on how LCHC plans on utilizing the program to support local youth career opportunities.
“Lynn Community Health Center is pleased to collaborate with MassHire North Shore through this pilot youth summer jobs initiative. We look forward to drawing on the success of our Community Health Student Fellowship Program to help advance a model that cultivates and prepares the next generation of healthcare professionals,” Rodriguez said.
Meanwhile, Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll commented on how the program aligns with their goals as an administration.
Healey said, “Every young person deserves the chance to explore their full potential and build a foundation for long-term success. This pilot program will allow us to support their growth and empower the next generation of workers who will drive our economy forward.”
Driscoll said, “When we support youth employment, we’re not just creating jobs, we’re creating stronger communities. Early work experiences instill responsibility, spark curiosity, and set young people on a path toward meaningful careers.”
