Youth and Parents
GDYT Frequently Asked Questions – Youth and Parents
How do I qualify for a summer job?
To qualify for a GDYT summer work experience you must:
- Live in the City of Detroit
- Be between the ages of 14-24
- Be eligible to work in the United States
You can apply if you are currently 13 years old and will turn 14 years old by July 1st. You may not apply if you will not be 14 years old by July 1st.
How are youth selected to participate in the GDYT program?
Selection is based on a random (Lottery) system. There may also be some GDYT opportunities available based on some of the following criteria: Whether you are economically disadvantaged (based on income and household size); barriers, such as homelessness, foster care, etc.; enrollment in partnering agency programs, etc.
What documents do I need to participate?
It is required for all GDYT participants to have the following documentation:
- Proof of Age
- Proof of Residency
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of Eligibility to work in the US
- Government or School issued picture ID
- Work Permit (ages 14-17)
- Required program forms
These documents can include but are not limited to: birth certificate, social security card, state ID/driver’s license, passport, business mail, official school records, etc.
Are there income guidelines for GDYT?
What are the dates of the GDYT program?
The GDYT work experience typically begins in early July and goes through August. Youth are permitted to work up to 120 hours for the summer, which usually is spread over a 6-week experience. Please note that employers and program providers make the final decision regarding work schedules.
GDYT participants that earn stipends instead of wages must meet program benchmarks instead of working a set number of hours.
What types of jobs do you have available?
The GDYT program has a vast range of placement possibilities. Youth will be placed based on their qualifications and program needs. GDYT has traditionally offered jobs in fields such as clerical, hospitality, greening and beautification, senior citizen support, summer camps, custodial, food service, healthcare and in government and nonprofit agencies. Youth may receive jobs in private or for‐profit companies in a variety of industries. Youth may also work on community service or service learning projects.
Youth selected for the GDYT Industry Led Training will receive a paid training experience in a high growth/high-demand sector.
Youth selected for the GDYT Career Pathways Internship will interview with employers for private sector job placements.
GDYT attempts to match youth with job preference and considers where you live. However, there is no guarantee of where you will be assigned. If you are 14-15 years old, you will likely be placed in the Junior Police or Fire Cadet program.
I worked last summer, am I guaranteed a position again this summer?
Can I ride the bus for free?
How much will I be paid and how often?
GDYT participants will be paid bi-weekly (once every 2 weeks) as follows:
Wage based participants: between $10 to $15 per hour.
Stipend based participants:
GDYT participants that earn stipends instead of wages must meet program benchmarks instead of working a set number of hours. Participants can earn stipends between $1,200 and $2,000 depending on the summer experience and benchmarks achieved.
How will I be paid? Will I receive a paper check or bank card?
Can my payroll be deposited directly in my personal banking account?
What’s a Career Pathways Internship?
Can I have more than one GDYT summer job?
I must attend summer school. Can I still participate in the GDYT program?
Can I apply if I have an arrest or conviction in my background?
Does the GDYT program drug test?
The GDYT program does not drug test those who apply, however some worksites may require testing. If you feel you have a substance abuse problem, please let someone on our team know or contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800- 662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day- a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. Locally, you may also contact Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) at 1-800-241-4949 for assistance.