Empower. Equip. Advance.

TempleCares: Bridge to Employment is a workforce development program for North Philadelphia youth ages 17–24 who are interested in a career in healthcare. Participants receive professional development, paid job experience, and industry-recognized credentials. After completing training, participants receive support with job placement, interview preparation, and ongoing coaching.

Program Highlights

Eligibility:

  • Philadelphia residents ages 17–24

  • High school diploma or GED (or on track to graduate)

  • TANF eligible

  • Authorized to work in the U.S.

  • Males 18+ must register for Selective Service

  • Able to pass federal and state background checks and drug screening

Schedule:

July–December, with flexible part-time options. Enrollment begins in the spring.

What You’ll Get

Career Readiness & Support

  • One-on-one career coaching

  • Resume and interview prep

  • Application support and referrals to additional healthcare pathways

  • Reference letters from program staff

  • Coaching support for three months after job placement

Credentials

Earn fully covered, industry-recognized credentials:

  • Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

  • Clinical Certified Medical Assistant (CCMA)

  • Medical Office

  • Behavioral Health

Paid Work Experience

  • Intern with partners like Temple Health, Penn Medicine, and CVS

  • Explore careers, build professional and personal skills

  • Gain real-world experience while earning above minimum wage

Incentives & Support

  • Gift cards for completing milestones
  • Free SEPTA passes
  • Supportive services to help you stay on track

Get Involved

Temple Students & Faculty

  • Volunteer as tutors or mentors

  • Donate a few hours per week on campus and be a part of someone’s success! 

  • Gain experience in teaching, test prep, and youth engagement

  • Help participants prepare for placement tests, credentialing exams, and job readiness

    • Provide academic support for homework and practice tests. 

    • Create weekly benchmark goals and assessment methods to track skill gains. 
    • Improve test-taking strategies and increase confidence when taking timed tests. 
    • Enhance and facilitate weekly professional development workshops. 
    • Provide mentorship to participants throughout program. 

  • Opportunities available through work-study or for-credit placements

Community Partners

  • Refer youth ages 17–24 with a passion for healthcare

  • Host interns and help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals

  • Share your expertise as a guest speaker

Host Sites & Employers

  • Support youth development and community growth

  • Provide internship experiences in healthcare settings

  • TempleCares covers intern pay and training; you provide the opportunity

Internships run 3 months, 16 hours/week. Interns are matched to your organization based on skills and goals.

 

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