The Supported Training & Employment Program (STEP) is an internship program, managed collectively by the Human Resources Department and the Human Services Agency (HSA). The program is designed to prepare and train current or former foster youth ages 18-27 transition into the workforce. Youth in guardianship who meet the qualifications below are also encouraged to apply. The purpose of the program is to introduce these young adults who are at risk of underemployment to “the world of professional work.”
The program focuses on five areas:
- Job readiness and skills training
- Job shadowing and employment coaching
- Hands-on, paid work experience in a county department
- Transition planning
- Ongoing program support
Qualifications
Individuals are eligible for STEP if they are:
- Be between the ages of 18-27 years old
- Be a current or former foster youth (including guardianship)
- Be dependent of the court at least 1 day after your 13th birthday
- Currently live in San Mateo County or previously received foster care services there
- Have a High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent. Or have previous work experience.
- Duration: This is an extra-help position. Extra-help positions are short-term employment for up to 1040 hours.
- Hours: 20 hours per week (1040 hours per year max)
- Location: Across various departments and locations throughout San Mateo County
- How to Apply: The internship opportunity is posted online at governmentjobs.com.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact the STEP coordinator, Iris Tan at itan@smcgov.org
Crossing paths with the STEP program has been one of the best experiences that has ever happened to me. Thanks to my coach, the STEP coordinator, and the entire staff, I was able to grow professionally and develop valuable skills that I can apply throughout my career journey. The program offered hands-on experience and the flexibility to focus 100% on my career goals, and helped me become the person that I am today. One piece of advice I would give to future STEP interns is to step out of their comfort zone and try an internship. This experience can help you learn valuable skills, grow professionally, find your passion, guide you toward your career goals, and build meaningful connections.
-Wilson Lopez Perez
Human Resources Department
When thinking about returning to work, my biggest worry was not being able to work around my schedule as a full-time mom. Soon after applying to the STEP Internship, I realized it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that would allow me to grow, gain work experience, gain flexibility in pursuing higher education, and still be around for my child’s milestones. Being able to network with the STEP team and participate in 1:1 mentor check-in meetings is essential for expanding your network and increasing your potential for growth within your organization. I would recommend that any current or former foster youth apply for this internship. This opportunity allows current and former foster youth to enter a professional work setting and receive training and support throughout the internship. It strongly encourages to ask questions and seek support throughout the internship. Knowing that during this internship, you can be independent while also having a small circle to rely on when things get overwhelming is reassuring, creating a worry-free environment.
- Maria Martinez Banda
Parks Department
When I joined the STEP program, I didn't know what to expect, but now that I've settled into my position, I feel fulfilled and supported. I was worried that getting into the medical field would be difficult, but with this program giving me a STEP in the door (pun intended), the transition has been smooth and effortless. Anyone who qualifies for the STEP program should participate as it helps you bolster your resume and gain experience working for the county.
- Nathan Smith
San Mateo Medical Center
Being part of the STEP Program was a life changing experience. It opened up so many opportunities for me, both personally and professionally. Being an intern presented me with new challenges that were difficult to face at first, but they helped me grow significantly as a person. I highly recommend joining the STEP Program for those who want to start making a difference in their community. Don't let anyone dim your dreams or tell you what you can't do, because you are the one who decides how far you want to go.
- Lorena Sterne Aguilar
San Medical Center
Since I started working in the STEP program, I have grown not only professionally but also personally. Gaining experience, skills, and abilities that I'm going to be able to use every day of my life. I have also found a community that supports and guides me at every step of my journey. I am truly grateful for the support and motivation the program has provided, as it inspires me every day to give my best and allows me a path to achieve my goals. I recommend joining the STEP program to anyone who believes in their ability to move forward and make the most of the opportunities they are given.
- Juanita Rojas Ibanez
Library
