This year marks the sixth anniversary of Next, our region’s dedicated youth career and employment center. Founded by Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW), Next was established to address the needs of young adults aged 16 to 24 in Clark, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum counties who are not currently in school and are seeking to further their education or require employment assistance.
According to the 2024 Opportunity Youth report by WSW and its Columbia-Willamette Workforce Collaborative (CWWC) partners, there are approximately 27,227 such young adults in the Southwest Washington-Portland metropolitan area. Of those, approximately 6,963 resided in Clark County and 3,225 were in Cowlitz, Wahkiakum, and Pacific counties. Next has served more than 1,000 young adults in the last six years with 182 young adults enrolled during the 2023-2024 program year.
Taking an integrated approach to training, career exploration, continuing education, and employment, Next offers a range of services to help participants overcome barriers to secure and maintain jobs. For many young adults, this includes assistance with transportation, work or school supplies, tools, and fees for tests or other necessities. The center excels at providing personalized support, with Career Coaches working one-on-one with participants to create individualized plans that align with their interests and career goals. Through workforce preparation classes, participants also gain valuable skills in areas such as workplace etiquette, soft skills development, and career exploration, equipping them for future success.
This comprehensive approach empowers young adults to build sustainable careers, supporting them every step of the way as they navigate their educational and professional journeys.
In the 2023 program year (July 2023 – June 2024), Next provided 192 services, with an additional 28 services delivered in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties. Of the participants enrolled, approximately 93% come from low-income households, and 40% identify as people of color or multiracial. These numbers reflect the center’s commitment to serving a diverse community of young adults and addressing the unique challenges they face in pursuing education and employment opportunities.
Next offers a highly valuable program focused on supporting participants as they work toward their General Education Diploma (GED). This initiative provides young adults with the essential resources and personalized guidance needed to overcome educational barriers. Through individualized learning plans and collaboration with a dedicated Career Coach, participants are equipped to not only earn their GED but also confidently pursue further education and career opportunities. Enrolled individuals gain access to GED preparation classes, free tutoring, and on-site testing in a familiar and supportive environment, ensuring they are well-prepared for their exams. Additionally, Next connects participants with local colleges, trade schools, and universities, helping them explore higher education opportunities that align with their long-term career goals.
For participants ready to jump into the workforce, Next provides real-world work experience through paid internships. Along with this opportunity, enrolled participants can also access job training certification courses and training programs for in-demand careers.
Over the last program year, Next provided 30 internships to youth. Mark, a participant in early 2024, was placed in an internship with a local manufacturer. This hands-on opportunity led to a permanent full-time job with the company, providing Mark with meaningful employment to support himself and his family. In addition, Next purchased tools for Mark that he needed for his new job.
Next support services helped Kaylie prepare to be interview ready. “I could never be more thankful to the Next program for helping me get my driver’s license and interview clothes that I needed,” said Kaylie. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Next. I am hugely grateful and appreciative. Thank you, Next!”
After completing a series of free, on-site workshops, Stacey was able to leave the shelter she was staying in and secure an apartment and a paid internship. When asked about her favorite aspect of Next, she responded with a shy smile, “I love everything here.” From an initial sense of hopelessness upon arrival, Stacey now radiates enthusiasm for what lies ahead in her journey.
Businesses have a unique opportunity to engage with their future workforce by partnering with Next. Companies can connect with young talent by hosting interns, participating in hiring events, leading workshops, joining employer Q&A panels, or offering job shadowing experiences.
The center also provides businesses with financial support through training reimbursements. Once the training is completed, businesses can be reimbursed for up to 75% of the wages earned by the youth participant during the training period, or up to $5,000, whichever is less. For more information on how your business can get involved, contact Haley Hansen at haley.h@nextsuccess.org.
Young adults who are ready to plan their next education or employment steps can register for a virtual or in-person orientation on the Next website at www.nextsuccess.org. Those wanting to pursue their GED should attend the in-person orientation, which is directly followed by a presentation on GED specifics.
In Clark County, call 360.207.2628 or visit 120 NE 136th Avenue, Suite 130, Vancouver, WA 98684. Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
In Cowlitz County, call 360.890.7766 or visit WorkSource, 305 S Pacific Ave., Suite 101, Kelso, WA 98626. Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wahkiakum County young adults can meet with staff every other Monday at Wahkiakum County Health and Human Services, 42 Elochoman Valley Road, Cathlamet, WA 98612.
To find out where staff may also be available across Clark and Cowlitz counties, please email admin@nextsuccess.org.
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WSW’s PY24 WIOA Youth program is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. $1,428,921 (100% of total) is financed by Federal funds.
