PFS Launches Free Youth Workforce Development Program

SAN MATEO, Calif., June 11, 2025 – Peninsula Family Service (PFS) is launching its Youth Workforce Development Program: Pathway into the Workforce, a 10-week summer initiative designed to prepare historically excluded youth, ages 16–24, for careers in the skilled trades.

The program provides hands-on training in fields such as construction, electrical, HVAC, welding, plumbing, and carpentry, and includes industry-recognized certifications, career coaching, as well as direct access to apprenticeship pathways.

The program kicks off in North San Mateo County and is open to underserved youth, particularly BIPOC, foster, justice-involved, and opportunity youth, from Daly City, South San Francisco, Brisbane, and Pacifica. Participants will gain real-world experience through technical training, employer site visits, mock interviews, and a final capstone showcase that connects them to local industry professionals.

“By providing hands-on training in the trades, we’re not only preparing young people for meaningful careers—we’re also helping them gain the confidence, skills, and support networks they need to thrive. At PFS, we believe every young person deserves a pathway to stability and success, and this program is one way we’re making that vision a reality,” said Dr. Charles Hansen, Chief Program Officer at Peninsula Family Service.

In partnership with the San Mateo County Office of Education and supported by funders including the Sand Hill Foundation, the program offers a structured curriculum in four phases: foundational life and professional skills, trade-specific technical instruction, work-based learning with industry mentors, and transition planning for apprenticeships or employment. All participants receive stipends, transportation support, and essential work gear.

Program highlights include:

• OSHA-30 and CPR/First Aid certification
• Hands-on modules in at least three skilled trades
• Industry engagement through site visits and guest speakers
• A Youth Trade Fair & Capstone Showcase to celebrate participant projects

Peninsula Family Service anticipates that at least 70% of participants will transition into trade-related employment or training within 6 to 12 months of program completion. All participants will receive ongoing support and follow-up for continued success.

For more information about the Youth Workforce Development Program or to learn how to support or refer a participant, visit www.pfso.org.

About Peninsula Family Service

Peninsula Family Service (PFS) strengthens communities across the SF Bay Area Peninsula by providing children, families, individuals and older adults at every stage of life with the support and tools to realize their full potential and lead healthy, stable lives. PFS is one of the largest providers of infant, toddler, and preschool early learning and child development programs in the region. Youth are served by PFS programs from ages 5 to 21 including our teen financial literacy program. Other PFS priority program areas are financial empowerment, employment services and older adult services, ensuring that people at every stage of life have access to opportunities that help them thrive. Established in 1950, PFS has remained a trusted community partner, dedicated to fostering stability, opportunity, and well-being for the individuals and families it serves. For more information, visit www.pfso.org.