Denver Youth with a Summer Job Can Earn $250 Bonus

Denver Youth with a Summer Job Can Earn $250 Bonus

Published on March 02, 2026

The City and County of Denver is accepting applications for the Mayor's YouthWorks Initiative, a program that offers a $250 retention bonus to eligible youth ages 14-21 who complete 100 hours of work between March 1 and August 14, 2026. Applications are now open and will close Monday, July 6, 2026. Learn more about eligibility requirements here.

"This initiative is about more than jobs, it's about investing in Denver's future," said Mayor Mike Johnston. "Work brings us purpose, teaches us the value of teamwork, and shows that the best way to solve a problem is by doing so together."

This effort supports the city's 2026 Child Friendly goal to connect 5,000 more young people to quality out-of-school programming and work opportunities. Last year, the City and County of Denver connected over 4,000 young adults to jobs through youth employment programs.

The city is also hosting a series of in-person and virtual job fairs to connect individuals to employment opportunities. View all job fair dates and various job postings here. Employers who have both seasonal and year-round opportunities are encouraged to join upcoming job fairs and connect with our Denver Workforce Development team. Interested employers can visit here to learn more.

"Last year, more than 1,500 youth earned retention bonuses through this program, a milestone that reinforces our commitment to helping young people thrive at every stage of their career journey. Not only are we supporting them now through meaningful jobs, but we are investing in our future workforce," said Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity.

"Work experience builds more than resumes. It builds confidence, leadership, and connection," said Jess Ridgway, Executive Director of the Office of Children's Affairs. "When young people are supported in gaining these experiences, we create pathways that strengthen families, neighborhoods, and Denver's long-term success."

In addition to summer employment, families can also access a range of programs through the Youth Program Locator here through the Office of Children's Affairs. This tool includes afterschool and summer programs, as well as resources like Tasty Food - a meal program providing free meals to youth ages 3-18 at recreation centers year-round.

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