Focus on Youth

Focus on Youth is returning for summer 2026! 

Focus on Youth is a summer work program for Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board Students. Every summer since 2008, HWDSB has partnered with community partners through the Focus on Youth program to support them in delivering summer programs that keep young people safe and active. Following a successful interview, students who are offered positions within the program are placed with a community-partnered organization for summer employment. 

Focus on Youth is now accepting applications starting on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, May 1, 2026 at 11:59pm. Students must sign into their HWDSB email address to access the application form.

If selected to participate in the program, student employment will run from July 6 to August 21, 2026. Programs and activities are focused on:

• working with children and youth
• arts and culture
• sports and recreation
• education, literacy, and numeracy
• community gardens and horticulture
• food banks
• working with seniors
• leadership development

Focus on Youth Applicant Requirements:

• Must be 16 to 21 years of age as of July 6, 2026
• Must commit to work from July 6 to August 21, 2026
• Must have been registered in an HWDSB program in 2025/26
• Must have an up-to-date resume 3 Professional/Teacher References – can be volunteer-related
• Must have a valid social insurance number and a bank/chequing account
• Will be required to pass a criminal record check if over the age of 18 (costs provided by the program)
• Focus on Youth will also be hosting an online webinar via Microsoft Teams, and an information session on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 4:00pm. Sign up with the link below to attend.

SIGN UP TO ATTEND THE ONLINE INFORMATION SESSION

For application questions or support please contact:

Phone: 905-527-5092 ext. 2135
Email: [email protected]

Be sure to follow @focusonyouth_hwdsb on Instagram for updates.