Peer Inspired Navigation of Employment

I am leading.

PINE (Peer Inspired Navigation of Employment) is an initiative aimed at connecting employers seeking to expand their workforce with local youth. The program uses a cohort-based mentoring approach, building the skills needed to be valuable employees in a variety of work settings and environments, and creating positive, long-lasting relationships with employers.

Components of the program:

- Driver’s Ed: The Tree Street Driver Education Program offers no-cost Driver Education to low-income youth ages 16-24. Young people participate in 27 hours of in-class instruction (with language support for ELL students!), and get 10 hours of behind-the-wheel training. They leave the program with their Driver’s Permit and info on how to complete the process to get their license.
- Career Exploration Badge Experience: This program is a partnership with JMG, targeted toward 11th and 12th grade asylum seekers who have not yet received work permits and are unable to work a traditional job. The program involves a 40 hour work experience in the youth development field, and a guided online course about career exploration and work readiness skills, and participants earn a $500 stipend and a JMG badge.
- PINE Work Experiences: Working with employer partners, PINE matches each job seeker to a job with the highest chance of success, and supports the entire process, including transportation, professional communication, receiving feedback, and transitions. Our PINE sites have included:
  - - The City of Lewiston – Recreation (KP Pool Aquatic Aides/Lifeguards)
    - Black Diamond Detailing (auto detailing)
    - Agassiz Village (summer camp in Poland)
    - Evergreen Subaru
    - Forage Market
    - The Daily Market
  - Job and Career Coaching: Staff members work with young people ages 16-24 who are seeking employment. This involves 1:1 support with students to build resumes, navigate the application process, practice interview skills, and overcome barriers to being successful at work.