Mayor's YouthWorks Initiative

Mayor's YouthWorks Initiative

The Mayor’s YouthWorks Initiative rewards eligible youth for their commitment to employment over the summer. If you meet the requirements and complete all steps, you can receive a $500 retention bonus in the fall!

HOW DOES IT WORK?

✔ Eligibility requirements:

  • Must be a resident of the City and County of Denver
    • Please note: Employment does not have to be located in the City and County of Denver
  • Must be 14-21 years old
  • Must have a job or have a job offer at the time of application. Please note, you can submit your application between April 1 and July 1, 2025
  • Work 100+ hours from April 1 to August 15, 2025 and provide verification

❌ You are not eligible if you are:

  • Self-employed
  • Working at an unpaid internship

APPLICATIONS

Applications for the $500 bonus are open now through July 1, 2025.

APPLY HERE

  • Please ensure you've reviewed all eligibility requirements
  • If you are looking for a summer job, please feel free to join us at any of our virtual or in-person job fairs to explore job opportunities
  • If eligible, you will be required to watch 10 financial empowerment videos to learn about budgeting, saving, and managing money
  • The first 2,000 eligible applicants will be notified via email from youthworks@denvergov.org 

EMPLOYERS

Employers hiring ages 14 and older who are interested in participating in one of our upcoming summer job fair events can contact DEDO’s Denver Workforce Development team at workforce@denvergov.org to learn more.

Employers who are committed to hiring youth ages 14-17 and are committed to providing a positive work environment, mentorship and skill development opportunities could receive a $1,000 incentive for hiring (up to 10 youth per employer). Interested employers can contact workforce@denvergov.org to learn more.


HOW AND WHEN WILL I GET PAID?

✔️ You must submit proof of working a minimum of 100 hours from March 1 to August 15, 2025

✔️ Submit your W-9 to receive your bonus

✔️ If under 18, your W-9 must be signed by a parent/guardian

✔️ The $500 bonus will be sent after the program ends (expected fall 2025)


FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I update my application after submitting it?
    • Yes, you can request updates if needed.
  • Who signs my W-9?
    •  If under 18, a parent/guardian must sign. If 18+, you can sign yourself.
  • Can I be self-employed?
    •  No, self-employment does not qualify.
  • Will the City provide me with a job?
    • No, you must already have a job at the time of application. However, the City is hosting several virtual and in-person job fairs to connect jobseekers to job opportunities.
  • What if I need help with my job application?
    • Drop in for assistance with job applications. We will be hosting several drop in assistance hours to help with uploading your work hours, completing your W-9, and any other questions you have. Please see the side bar for all the dates and locations. If you have further questions, please contact youthworks@denvergov.org.
  • Where can I find additional resources?
    • In addition to the Mayor’s YouthWorks Initiative, families can explore various programs through the Office of Children's Affairs Youth Program Locator. This resource includes initiatives like Tasty Food, a meal program offering free meals to youth ages 3-18 at recreation centers year-round view here.