West Michigan Works! received 283 applications for its 2025 Summer Work Experience Program, just 15 applicants shy of last year. This continued demand reflects strong interest from youth across West Michigan in gaining real-world job skills while offering employers access to motivated young talent eager to learn and contribute. The applicants represent counties throughout West Michigan, including:
- Muskegon County: 117
- Kent County: 88
- Ottawa County: 19
- Allegan County: 15
- Ionia County: 18
- Barry County: 13
- Montcalm County: 13
Brandon Kalbach
While summer is a pivotal time for youth employment, West Michigan Works! encourages employers to consider offering year-round work experience opportunities that help develop local talent while meeting business needs. One recent example highlights the real impact these programs can have on both youth and employers.
In November 2024, Family Farm and Home in Allegan partnered with West Michigan Works! to mentor a youth participant through the six-week Ascend Youth Program. Student Jordan Nabors undertook a range of tasks designed to develop essential job skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, and a strong work ethic.
Jordan demonstrated resilience and determination, ultimately completing the experience and earning a permanent position at the store. In April, Jordan was named Employee of the Month. Encouraged by the program’s success, Family Farm and Home is exploring the expansion of its youth employment partnerships to additional store locations across lower Michigan.
“At Family Farm and Home our mission is to build a family of team members to help our customers and community live, work and grow like we do. Helping youth gain experience and provide them with the opportunity to grow is a win for all,” said Kalbach. “Jordan is a successful, goal-driven, and hardworking family member who is continuing to better both their personal and business goals. We look forward to continuing our community support and relationship with West Michigan Works!”
West Michigan Works! provides support to participating employers throughout the process and is seeking more businesses interested in mentoring local youth through short- or long-term work experiences.
“We’re thrilled to see such strong interest from youth across West Michigan who are eager to build job skills and explore career pathways,” said Chad Patton, director of development and innovation, West Michigan Works!. “Initiatives like the Summer Work Experience Program prepare young people for the future while giving employers a chance to shape tomorrow’s workforce and meet real business needs. We encourage more businesses to get involved and discover the mutual benefits of investing in young talent.”
For more information on how to get involved, visit our dedicated employers page below!
