October 2, 2026 3:05 a.m.

The YMCA of Douglas County is helping local teens prepare for employment and build skills for the future through three education and workforce development opportunities offered this fall.

A release from the Y said starting October 7th, the YMCA’s four-week Teen Workforce Development Program, offered in collaboration with Recruit HIPPO and local employers, will help teens ages 14 to 18 get ready to enter the workforce. Participants will learn what local employers are looking for, build a resume, practice interviewing, meet local employers and gain valuable experience preparing to apply for their first jobs.

The program meets Wednesdays from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., October 7th through 28th.

The YMCA is also offering two career-focused aquatics training opportunities. The Swim Instructor Certification Course begins October 24th and is open to participants ages 16 and older. The course provides the training needed to pursue employment as a swim instructor, and course costs may be reimbursed after 90 days of regularly scheduled employment as a swim instructor with the YMCA of Douglas County.

In December, teens and adults ages 15 and older can take the YMCA’s Lifeguard Certification Course, beginning December 19th. Participants who successfully complete the required swim test and course can earn the certification needed to pursue lifeguarding opportunities.

Registration is now open for all three programs. More information about schedules, costs, requirements and registration information at the link with this story at: www.ymcaofdouglascounty.org/education.