WHAT IS PAYE?
The Partnership to Advance Youth Employment (PAYE) is a joint initiative between private sector employers and the City of Toronto. A group of business leaders is working to increase access to economic opportunities for youth and connect employers that are hiring to a pool of talented young candidates.
Statistics show that Toronto's youth unemployment rate is more than twice that for adults. This disadvantage is made worse by factors such as gender, education levels and demographic and socio-economic conditions. In addition, youth have been hit particularly hard by the recession compared to other groups.
When PAYE was launched in 2007, it was designed to respond to the needs of Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods that were identified in the Mayor's Community Safety Plan. For 2010 PAYE is expanding and will feature city-wide recruitment initiatives so that youth from other disadvantaged communities can also take part.
For more information, read about upcoming events or see the PAYE video:
WHO ARE THE PAYE PARTNERS?
The success of PAYE would not be possible without the leadership of a growing number of companies, organizations and individuals who have made it a priority to help level the playing field for Toronto youth from disadvantaged communities.
Employers play a crucial role in developing the potential of Toronto's youth; as creators of jobs, mentors, and role models.
The City of Toronto is a committed partner. City staff provide ground-level support for all PAYE initiatives and match qualified youth to employment opportunities.
Community-based agencies are the primary deliverers of youth employment programs. They provide the guidance and support youth need in gaining and maintaining employment.
WHO ARE THE PAYE YOUTH?
PAYE focuses on young people under 30 years of age. They are a diverse group, with a wide range of skills, interests, education and experience, and are well-suited to positions matched to their skills, experience and aptitudes. They include:
- High school graduates
- Youth with some post-secondary education
- Internationally-educated workers with post-secondary degrees
These young people are looking for that vital first connection to begin their careers; to demonstrate what they have to offer, achieve economic independence and contribute to the community as a whole.
HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED?
Read about how you can get involved as an employer or as a youth.