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.