Career Readiness
& Employment
Our work is grounded in accountability, relationships, and measurable impact. We partner with educators, families, employers, and community leaders to ensure young people have consistent support systems that help them stay on track academically, develop life and career skills, and transition successfully into adulthood.
Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP)
The Illinois Youth Investment Program is more than a job, it is a year long pathway to stability, growth, and long term career success. Designed for Illinois residents ages 16 to 24, IYIP addresses the real barriers young people face while supporting their physical, emotional, social, and mental well being. Participants receive up to 52 weeks of paid employment at $15 per hour for 20 hours per week, along with the guidance and support needed to build confidence, workplace skills, and sustainable career momentum. IYIP invests in the whole person so youth can secure employment and step into self sufficiency with strength and purpose.
One Summer Chicago
(OSC)
One Summer Chicago is a dynamic opportunity for young people ages 16 to 24 to earn, learn, and grow during the summer and beyond. Open to City of Chicago residents, the program provides paid employment at $16.60 per hour for 20 hours per week, paired with hands on workforce readiness training, financial literacy, professional etiquette coaching, and communication and conflict resolution skills. Participants gain real world experience, build resumes, and develop the confidence needed to thrive in today’s workforce. OSC turns summer into a launchpad for long-term opportunity, independence, and career advancement.
Get Paid Work Experience
We focus on both skill building and character development because long-term success requires both competence and confidence.
At CIRCLE, we learn to earn…
Real Careers. Real Earning Potential. Real Impact.
At CIRCLE Foundation, workforce development is more than job placement, it is about preparing young people for lifelong success. We equip youth and young adults with the practical skills, professional mindset, and real world experience they need to thrive in today’s competitive workforce.
Our programs combine hands on training, career exploration, mentorship, and paid work experience to ensure participants do not just get jobs, they build careers. We recognize that employment barriers often extend beyond job skills. That is why our model includes supportive services that address social, emotional, and practical challenges. From mentorship to resource navigation, we ensure young people are supported every step of the way.
Professional Development & Industry Exposure
Participants receive comprehensive workforce preparation designed to equip them for real world success. Training includes resume building and interview coaching, workplace communication and professional etiquette, financial literacy and money management, conflict resolution and leadership development, as well as time management and workplace accountability.
Our approach goes beyond technical skills. We intentionally blend skill building with character development because long term success requires both competence and confidence. By strengthening mindset, professionalism, and personal responsibility, we prepare participants not just for their first job, but for sustainable career growth.