Grand Rapids Launches Paid Summer Jobs for 1,400+ Teens Since 2020

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The City of Grand Rapids has officially opened applications for its GRow1000 Summer Youth Employment Program, marking the start of the city's seventh year connecting young people with paid work experience.

The program, open to residents ages 15 to 24, will run from June 8 through July 17, 2026. Applications are now available through May 8 and can be submitted through the city's official website.

Pay Bump for Participants

2026 offers participants $15 an hour for 20 hours of work each week, representing a significant pay increase from last year. The program also offers paid training, job shadowing, and weekly professional development sessions designed to help teens build real-world skills while earning money.

Building Skills That Last

Organizers said demand remains strong, with many past participants using the experience to land future jobs or strengthen college and career paths. The program has already reached nearly 1,400 young people since launching in 2020, helping them build real-world skills while earning money.

"No matter where they land after this experience, they can use those skills," Executive Director of Our Community's Children Shannon L. Harris told 13 ON YOUR SIDE Thursday. "We also know that this program helps them to support family income, and it also helps to merge what they're learning in class in the real world."

Diverse Job Opportunities

Job opportunities span city departments, nonprofits and private businesses across industries ranging from construction and engineering to education and office work. The program includes paid job shadow opportunities held on-site prior to the first day of work, along with pre-program interviews with supportive staff members to assist with worksite matching and career interests.

Weekly Professional Development

The program has introduced updated weekly professional development topics and facilitators hosted each Friday throughout the six-week program, giving participants valuable career preparation skills beyond traditional job training.

Strong Community Impact

The GRow1000 program has become a cornerstone of Grand Rapids youth employment, providing consistent opportunities for young people to gain experience in their chosen fields while earning a meaningful wage. The worksite partners include leading industries throughout the Grand Rapids area, giving participants exposure to diverse career paths.

City officials are urging eligible teens and young adults to apply early and take advantage of a program designed to turn a summer job into a long-term stepping stone toward professional success.

How to Apply

Applications are open now through May 8. Interested participants can apply online through the City of Grand Rapids website at cityofgrandrapids.com/grow1000.

For more information about the program or to learn about becoming a worksite partner, contact Our Community's Children at info@oakdaleneighbors.org.

About GRow1000

GRow1000 is a city-wide initiative designed to provide meaningful summer employment opportunities for youth ages 15-24. The program partners with local businesses, nonprofits, and city departments to create paid internships and jobs that help young people develop professional skills while earning income.