SummerWorks, Washtenaw County’s summer youth employment program, is seeking local employers and professionals to provide paid internships and mentorship to young adults aged 16-24 across the county.
Going into its 11th year, SummerWorks has offered 10-week paid summer internships to youth across Washtenaw County. In the past, the summer youth employment program has facilitated about 80-100 internship placements each year. Beyond internships, the program also encompasses professional development sessions, mentoring opportunities, and creation of a professional portfolio.
“SummerWorks youth develop essential skills prior to their start so they can feel confident and excel at their internships” said Kathleen Clancey, program manager for SummerWorks, which is run by the University of Michigan, Michigan Works! Southeast, Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development, and Ann Arbor SPARK. “Our young adults are so eager and we regularly hear from employers how much of an impact they have on their businesses, organizations, and departments.”
Employers from all fields are welcome to host an intern, as youth have varied interests. Young adults are paid $15 to $17 an hour during their internships, depending on high school completion status. Local employers who want to host a SummerWorks internship will need to commit $3,000 to $3,400 to fund the position. Employers can apply for financial support to subsidize a SummerWorks internship.
SummerWorks employers receive support and guidance from staff throughout the duration of the program, such as managing the HR and hiring process, payroll, and more. Employers also have the opportunity to engage in optional sessions focused on topics such as how to engage interns in meaningful ways and how to promote inclusive mentorship.
“We have participated for multiple years, and every year has been a great experience. Things are run smoothly and the students that come in as employees are a great help. It feels great having help and knowing they are being paid fairly and receiving support,” said a 2025 SummerWorks employer regarding their experience. The deadline to apply to host a SummerWorks intern is March 15.
In addition to internships and professional development, SummerWorks also facilitates mentorship for youth who are interested. Mentors assist youth in exploring career interests and post-secondary education options, as well as providing a supportive environment to reflect on their job skills and experiences. Mentors should commit to meeting with their mentee once a week for the duration of the summer program. Meetings can be virtual, and SummerWorks would like to attract a diverse group of mentors from a variety of professional, educational, and personal backgrounds. SummerWorks also provides support and guidance for mentors on how to facilitate the mentorship relationship. The deadline to apply to be a mentor is April 15.
Potential employers and mentors who want to learn more about the program can register for an upcoming informational session, which include both virtual and in-person options between Feb. 11 and March 11.
“Overall I love SummerWorks, I think it is a great way to build community and develop personal and professional skills. I feel like I have grown in confidence, professional/personal skills that I use now in every job, as well as experience and knowledge that I don’t think I would have access to otherwise,” said a 2025 SummerWorks youth participant regarding the value of the program.
Young adults interested in SummerWorks must apply by March 22. The application should take between 10-15 minutes to complete, the link and more information, such as the commitment details and key dates, can be found at Summerworks.info.
SummerWorks is a partnership between Michigan Works! Southeast, the Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development, the University of Michigan, and Ann Arbor SPARK.
