APPS Job Readiness Program
APPS Job Readiness Program
The award-winning APPS Job Readiness Program (AJRP) is an empowering workforce development initiative designed for youth ages 14-23. The program is dedicated to equipping participants with the tools and experiences needed to confidently move toward future pursuits.
Throughout the program, participants embark on a comprehensive experience that includes skill development, real-world exposure, mentorship, networking, confidence building and career planning. Participants gain real-world, paid work experience with City departments and local businesses. Work experiences may include supporting youth in summer camps, helping to maintain parks, supporting golf course operations and more.* Youth development specialists provide linkage to support services and mentorship to ensure participants’ success.
Pay is $15 an hour, and participants can work up to 20 hours a week.
While most participants are a part of the program through the summer, there may be an opportunity to continue in the fall and winter.
For more information, please email AJRP@columbus.gov.
*Available work experiences vary; we will make every effort to match participants with work experiences that support career interests.
What is AJRP?
Recognition
The APPS Job Readiness Program is an award-winning program!
- 2025 NRPA 30 Under 30 Award, Kennedy Billups
- 2024 OPRA Awards of Excellence, APPS Job Readiness Program: A Pathway to Possibilities for Columbus Youth, First Place-Recreation and Governor’s Award Finalist
2025 Program Year
Eligibility
All participants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Columbus resident and/or pay Columbus taxes
- 14-23 years of age
- Pass a drug test
- Pass a background check (18+)
The following documents are required:
- Birth certificate and/or Social Security card
- Photo ID (state- or school-issued acceptable)
Schedule
- Feb. 1-17: Participant Application Opens (Program Participants 14-23 years old)
- Feb. 18: Seasonal Youth Development Leader Application Opens (must be 18+)
- Spring 2025: Interviews, Opportunity Fair, Meet and Greet, and Onboarding and Orientation
Work with Columbus' Youth
Become a Partner
The APPS Job Readiness Program (AJRP) is seeking partners for 2025. Partners are local organizations that employ youth in the program. Partners are dedicated to empowering young individuals by providing essential skills, fostering confidence and building resilience. A few things to know:
- You will mentor the participant in business skills and life skills.
- The participant will complete practical work tasks that help your organization – and help them learn and grow.
- Our Youth Development Specialist will work closely with you and the participant to ensure the experience is positive for everyone.
- The City pays the participant’s salary, you do not.
If you’re interested in becoming a partner for 2025, fill out the Partnership Interest Form. Our staff will initiate the qualification process to determine if your organization is a good fit.
Become a Youth Development Leader
As a Youth Development Leader (YDL), you’re dedicated to supporting and guiding our youth toward success. You will:
- Connect youth participants to job placements and career opportunities
- Recognize and address challenges impeding participants’ progress
- Provide mentorship and professional development to youth participants
Pay starts at $17. This seasonal position runs April-August 2025.
Together, we are fostering growth, resilience, and empowerment for a brighter future!
FAQs
What is AJRP?
The APPS Job Readiness Program (AJRP) is a workforce development program for youths and young adults aged 14-23.
When does hiring start for the youth?
Hiring for this year will begin on Febr. 1 and will close on Feb. 17.
When does the program end?
The summer portion of our program will conclude on Aug. 1.
How many hours are participants required to work?
There is no specific hourly requirement. Placement sites collaborate with each youth/young adult to establish a reasonable schedule. On average, participants work a maximum of 20 hours per week.
What placements are available?
We are currently accepting interest forms for partnerships across the City of Columbus. A detailed list of placements will be provided at a later date.
How old does my child have to be to participate in the program?
Participants must meet the age requirement at the time of registration. For example, if a youth turns 14 on Feb. 14, they can apply on Feb. 15, as they will then meet the eligibility criteria.
Does your program provide bus passes to get to and from the work site?
Yes, we provide a limited number of bus passes. Participants can request one through the registration process after completing their drug tests and background screenings. Columbus City Schools students can use their student ID as a bus pass during the summer.
How much will my child get paid per hour?
Participants will be paid $15.00 per hour.
What are the criteria for my child to participate in the program?
Participants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Columbus resident and pay Columbus taxes.
- Be ages 14-23.
- Pass a drug test.
- Pass a background check (18+ only).
- Provide a birth certificate and/or Social Security card.
- Provide a photo ID (state-issued or school-issued).
Is there a year-round opportunity or only summer?
While our current focus is on Summer 2025 programming, we plan to offer Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 sessions for participants who excel in the program and are selected to continue working.
Have additional questions?
Please contact us at AJRP@columbus.gov.