YES program offers money for students’ education, McGuire youth programs Published Aug. 11, 2008 By Erin Blauvelt 305th Air Mobility Wing public affairs McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- The Air Force Aid Society, along with the 305th Services Squadron youth programs, has created a program for high school students, which allows them to earn money for post-secondary education and gain valuable work and volunteer experience, while supporting and earning money for McGuire AFB. The Youth Employment Skills program is open to family members of active-duty Air Force members who have completed the eighth grade and have not yet graduated from 12th grade. The YES program, funded by AFAS, gives students $4 for every hour of volunteer work done on-base to go toward their future vocational-technical or academic endeavors. The money is "banked," and upon acceptance to the post-secondary institution, a check will be mailed directly to the institution. Each year, a student can earn up to $1,000 for 250 hours of volunteer work that can cover the costs of tuition, books, fees, and other direct educational expenses. Further, the program gives the base $2 for every volunteer hour that will be used in support of base youth program enhancements (up to $10,000 per year). The benefits of the program go far beyond the monetary gain, said Erica Mitchell, 305th SVS director of youth services. "Volunteers gain essential job skills, life skills, abilities and a great line to add to their resumes." One of the program's unique advantages is the wide array of volunteer opportunities available to students. "We work with the volunteers to figure out placement," said Ms. Mitchell. "They let me know what their aspirations are, and we work with agencies to find the best placement." Last year, for example, one student's goal was to become a photographer, and she was placed in the base Visual Information office. Another student was interested in working with children and was placed in the Child Development Center. "They gain truly applicable job knowledge in this program," Ms. Mitchell said. Last year McGuire had six high school students participate, who together earned $3,525; $2,350 for education and $1,175 for the base. Ms. Mitchell is hoping to raise that number this year. "There are no application deadlines and no maximum number of participants," she said. For more information about the Youth Employment Skills program or to get involved, call Ms. Mitchell at (609) 754-2050.