Connected Lane County
Connected Lane County is a mission-driven nonprofit organization striving to improve outcomes for underserved youth in Lane County. Their team works collaboratively with Lane County school districts, industry partners, workgroups, and community organizations to create opportunities and prepare youth for their future. By identifying and bridging gaps, working to change systems, and creating safe spaces, they help youth succeed.
Core Programs:
● Elevate exposes youth to modern career paths and provides career-connected learning activities. This program hosts hiring fairs and career expos for youth and coordinates job shadows and internships that align with youth interests while providing tools and training to succeed in the workplace.
● Navigate provides individualized work readiness and school re-engagement support services for youth facing significant barriers to employment and education. Connected Lane County’s team of Resource Navigators assist clients in obtaining safe housing, accessing quality healthcare, and achieving education and employment goals.
● Spark connects community, education, and industry through innovation, education, and hands-on learning. This program helps youth grow skills, become confident problem-solvers, and gain hands-on experiences. Connected Lane County has two Spark facilities, in Eugene and Springfield, that provide safe, welcoming spaces for youth to learn new skills, enhance
their creativity, and build positive social connections.
Excelerators and Drop-In Hours:
● Excelerators are designed to prepare young people for work through accelerated education, training, and hands-on skill application in growing career fields. Each Excelerator focuses on a different high-demand field and includes training, certifications, and relevant skill-building in order to prepare young people for careers. Excelerators include training from Connected Lane County staff and field-based industry internships, both of which are paid.
● Drop-in services offer a safe space for youth to receive support from our staff and volunteers in a variety of areas. The Connected Laned County team offers resume and cover letter writing support, interview practice, career mentorship, assistance with finding employment, connections to housing and healthcare resources, and more. Youth can use their space to study, enjoy free snacks, and access shower and laundry facilities.