The foundation’s Summer Youth Employment program provides grants for wage subsidies and program administration. During 2004 and 2005, almost $250,000 in grants were paid.

Statewide nonprofit business associations administer the program for association members that agree to hire high school students ages 16-19 for summer jobs that last at least eight weeks.

The Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota (ICBM) was the first association to participate in the program. During 2004, forty-two (42) students were hired by more than 35 ICBM member banks located throughout Minnesota. During 2005, sixty-three (63) students were hired by ICBM member banks.

The program expanded in 2005 to include members of the Minnesota Newspaper Association. Thirty-five students were hired at 33 community newspapers around Minnesota.

During 2006, the program will be expanded again with members of the Printing Industry of Minnesota participating for the first year.

For more information about this program, please contact Kristen Keran at 612-661-3966 or kkeran@pohladfamilygiving.org