Merced County Office of Education

 
EMPOWER

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About Empower

The EMPOWER Program provides educational assistance and job training to help out-of-school youth ages 16-24 succeed in school, then transition to college and/or a career.  Youth that do not have a high school diploma are provided with basic education skills, tutoring, and study skills, with an emphasis on literacy and numeracy, in order to obtain a GED or high school diploma.  EMPOWER youth are also provided paid and/or unpaid work experience, employability skills training, leadership development, placement in post-secondary education (to include career technical education and/or occupational skills), training, support services, adult mentoring, comprehensive guidance and counseling, and follow-up services for at least 12 months after completion of participation in the program.  The goal of all planned services is to lead to educational and career success for each participant!

EMPOWER is Youth Centric. The mission of the EMPOWER Program is to EMPOWER young adults to make informed decisions by providing self-awareness, options​, and accountability that lead to successful employment.

By 2025, EMPOWER will be recognized by our community as the premier program that prepares young adults to be responsible and contributing members of society.

Support Services

Paid and Unpaid Work Experience – Including Internships and Job Shadowing

Leadership Development

Adult Mentoring

Completion of a High School Diploma – Drop-out Prevention

Career Technical Training/Occupational Skills Training

Guidance and Counseling

Alternative Secondary School Offerings

Summer Employment Opportunities

Follow-up Services (12 Months)

Employment Assistance