**Announcing the WIOA Youth Program! 

What does the WIOA Youth Program offer you? Call our Albuquerque office at 505-843-1907 and ask to speak to one of our Youth Specialists.

If you are eligible, the WIOA Youth Program can help you access opportunities for:

• work-based learning
• industry-recognized credentials
• employment in high-demand occupations.

The program can provide:

• paid and unpaid work experiences (employment, apprenticeship, internships)
• tuition assistance for education & occupational skills training
• adult mentoring
• activities that help youth prepare for and transition to postsecondary education and training

How do you know if you qualify?

Note: Official documentation will be required for verification.

You qualify if you are IN SCHOOL and…

• between the ages of 14 and 21
• attending school (secondary or post-secondary)
• low income (see details below)
• meet at least one of the following:
  • Deficient in basic skills
  • English language learner
  • An offender
  • Homeless, runaway or foster child
  • Pregnant or parenting
  • Individual with a disability
  • Require additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment. (locally defined)

You qualify if you are OUT OF SCHOOL and…

• are between the ages of 16 and 24
• are not attending school
• meet at least one of the following:
  • School drop out
  • Within the age of compulsory school attendance but have not attended school for at least the most recent compete school year calendar quarter
  • A recipient of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent and are a low-income individual who is either basic skills deficient or an English language learner
  • Subject to the juvenile or adult justice system
  • Homeless, runaway or foster child
  • Pregnant or parenting.
  • Individual with a disability.
  • A low-income individual (see details below) who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment. (locally defined)

How do you know if you qualify as low income?

You qualify as low income if you:

• receive, or in the past 6 months have received, assistance through SNAP, TANF, SSI, or state or local income-based public assistance programs, or are in a family that meets this requirement
• are in a family with a total family income that does not exceed the higher of the poverty line or 70% of the LLSIL (see details below)
• are a homeless individual
• are a foster child
• are an individual with a disability whose income meets the requirements
• are an individual who receives or is eligible to receive free or reduced price lunch

Renee’s Journey: From High School to a Promising Career

At 17, Renee was a shy young lady facing significant challenges with hearing loss. Referred to the YDI WIOA Youth Program by her counselor at Independence High School. Renee, who has a disability, was determined to graduate high school.  With the guidance of her counselor and the YDI WIOA Youth Program, Renee not only graduated in May 2022 but also aspired to enter the workforce. However, her struggles posed significant challenges along the way.

Undeterred, Renee reached out to her youth development practitioner, Jennifer, seeking assistance with financial matters.  Jennifer recognized Renee’s potential and suggested she take the Post Tabe test, which Renee agreed to. Surpassing expectations, Renee scored two levels in Reading, earning a well- deserved incentive of $100.00.  Empowered by her achievement, Renee expressed readiness to pursue employment opportunities.

Jennifer, dedicated to finding the perfect fit for Renee, discovered an opening at ABC Preschool for a teacher’s assistant. Renee successfully completed the interview and commenced employment on Dec 6, 2023, earning $15.00 per hour for 400 hours.  Thriving in her role, Renee’s dedication and passion for work shone through. She built a strong relationship with the children and staff, quickly becoming a valuable member of the team. Her ability to connect with the children and contribute to their early education and underscored her natural aptitude for the role.

By March 2024, Renee had completed her work experience, leaving a lasting impression on the staff at ABC Preschool. Recognizing her talent and commitment, they offered Renee a permanent position, solidifying her success story.  Renee is now earning $14.50 per hour and working 35 hours per week.

Outside of work, Renee continued to pursue her personal goals. She began working on obtaining her driver’s license and saving for a vehicle, which would grant her greater independence and mobility. Additionally, Renee starting looking into housing options, aiming to find a place of her own in the near future

Renee’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the crucial support provided by NM Workforce YDI WIOA Youth program. The program’s guidance and encouragement helped Renee overcome her mental health challenges and transition from high school to a meaningful career. Renee’s story is a powerful reminder that with right support and a relentless spirit, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.

Grateful for the support and opportunities provided by the program, Renee remains committed to her personal and professional growth. She hopes to continue making a positive impact at ABC Preschool, further developing her skills and exploring opportunities for advancement in early childhood education. Renee’s story inspires other facing the similar challenges, showing that with determination and the right support, success is within the reach.

What documents will I need to verify my eligibility?

You will be asked to provide the following:

• State-issued ID or driver’s license
• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Proof of income (if applicable)
• Proof of Selective Service registration (if you are a male 18 or over)

How do you enroll in the WIOA Youth Program?

You can email Youth@wccnm.org or contact the New Mexico Workforce Connection Youth Program and staff nearest you:

Bernalillo County

Marisa Hudson l 505.263.5877 l mhudson@wccnm.org

Kylara Marsh l 505.203.9172 l kmarsh@wccnm.org

Amy Murphey 505-588-1734 amurphey@wccnm.org

Sandoval County

Eric Jack 505-721-0972 ejack@wccnm.org

Jordan Santiago 505.910-0364 l jsantiago@wccnm.org

Jennifer Martinez 505.907.1401 l jenmartinez@wccnm.org

Torrance County

John Morin l 505.588.1926 l jmorin@wccnm.org

Valencia County

Marcelina Vargas l 505.388.8463 l mvargas@wccnm.org

Marla Padilla 505-388-8463. mvargas@wccnm.org

How do you know if this program will work for you?

One of the best ways to recognize the program’s benefits is through success stories of others just like you.
Success stories!