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VERTO Program

The VERTO Program (Latin for “turn-around” or “change”) is a 20-week pre-employment program designed to help youth ages 18–24 move away from harm and toward school or meaningful employment. The first 8 weeks focus on hands-on training and personal development, with participants earning a $15/hour living allowance.

About The VERTO Program

The VERTO Program (Verto is Latin for “turn-around” or “change”) is a 20-week pre-employment program that assists youth between the ages of 18-24 transition out of harm’s way and back into school or into the workforce.

Each intake welcomes 12 youth and runs Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

What Youth Gain

First 8 weeks:

  • Employment and personal development
  • Technology and workplace skills
  • Conflict resolution and wellness training
  • Volunteer and leadership experience

Final phase:

  • Intensive job readiness training
  • First Aid certification
  • Additional certifications based on career goals

Verto gives youth the skills that are necessary to transition back into school or employment and away from the harmful lifestyles they currently lead by supporting them to find success and independence.

Employment is the goal for the youth attending the program, with schooling as an option to achieve the employment goals set by the youth.

What It Leads To

VERTO helps youth build the skills and confidence needed to move forward, whether that’s employment or returning to school as a pathway to work.

12-Week Paid Employment Placement
After in-house training, youth move into a 12-week paid employment placement. With support from YOUCAN’s Employment Coordinator, youth:

  • Explore career interests
  • Connect with employers
  • Apply for real job opportunities

Throughout placement, youth receive ongoing support to help them succeed on the job and beyond.

Many placements lead to continued employment. If not, YOUCAN continues working with youth to find the right fit.

For more information about the program, please contact Sebastian Barrera, or register below for our next Intake.


Apply now to join the next VERTO intake or connect with us to learn more.

Take the first step toward your future.

Apply now to join the next VERTO intake or connect with us to learn more. Please fill out our prescreen questionnaire form to register.

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Program Partners

Thank you to the following Partners for supporting The VERTO Program.

Be the reason a youth gets a second chance. Make an impact today.

The youth we work with have hopes and dreams. They want to build lives they can be proud of and give back to their community

With your support, they can receive essentials like food, work clothing, and bus passes. Some of the small things that make a big difference as they move toward stability and independence.

Create a lasting impact for a YOUCAN youth today.