Teenagers in Marion County will have more opportunities to land their first job this summer thanks to a county-funded program that reimburses small businesses $5 an hour for hiring first-time workers.
The Youth Employment Grant, administered by Willamette Workforce Partnership (WWP) in collaboration with Marion County, is continuing for the 2025–2026 fiscal years. The initiative is designed to help small employers offset the costs of onboarding and training while opening the door for young people to gain real-world experience.
The program is open to businesses located in Marion County with fewer than 35 employees. To qualify for the reimbursement, employers must hire a first-time worker who is a county resident between the ages of 14 and 17.
“Employment for youth can be tough, and yet data shows there are lifelong benefits to working as a teenager,” said Kim Parker-Llerenas, Executive Director/CEO of Willamette Workforce Partnership. “Lack of experience often can be a barrier, so working with employers who are willing to take the chance on someone who has not worked before can benefit everyone.”
Parker-Llerenas said that small business owners consistently tell her office how impressed they are with the energy and commitment of first-time workers. “We receive overwhelming feedback from employers who participate in the program about how eager and enthusiastic many of these new workers are,” she said. “The financial incentive for the employer oftentimes is the final push of encouragement to hire a first-time worker.”
The grant also emphasizes life lessons that go beyond the classroom. “Essential work skills are often best experienced and learned through actual work,” Parker-Llerenas explained. “Having a job where it’s imperative to show up on time, take direction, work with others, be flexible, and offer excellent customer service are all examples of real lessons learned. The experience is what makes the difference.”
The partnership between Marion County and WWP has been central to the program’s success. “The collaboration and investment from the Marion County Board of Commissioners has been instrumental,” Parker-Llerenas said. “We have worked closely with the Board to assure the program is meeting their goals of supporting both small businesses in the county and youth workers who are eager to get some work experience.”
The Youth Employment Grant is funded by a portion of Marion County’s video lottery proceeds, which are designated by state law for economic development activities. WWP, the region’s official Workforce Development Board, oversees the application process and distribution of funds.
Small businesses interested in applying for the Youth Employment Grant can find more information and access the online application at Willamette Workforce Partnership
About Willamette Workforce Partnership
Willamette Workforce Partnership (WWP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves as the Workforce Development Board for Marion, Polk, Linn, and Yamhill counties. WWP works to build a thriving workforce in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley by building strategic partnerships, funding innovative programs, and convening community experts to address local labor market needs and prepare the next generation of workers for long-term economic growth.
About Marion County
Located in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Marion County is the state’s fifth most populous county. The Marion County Board of Commissioners is committed to protecting, promoting, and enhancing a positive quality of life for all its residents. Through strategic investments in economic development, public safety, and community services, the county works to foster a vibrant and prosperous environment for individuals, families, and businesses to succeed.
