The Opportunity Youth Healthcare Pipeline program, a collaborative effort by J.P. Morgan Chase, the United Way of Greater Houston, Memorial Hermann Health System and several community-based organizations, seeks to connect youth with career opportunities in the health care sector in the Houston region. This in-depth study explores the operational dynamics, challenges, opportunities and successes of the program. Recommendations for enhancing program impact are provided.
Key findings
- Overall, participants had favorable impressions of the Opportunity Youth Healthcare Pipeline program. They appreciated its organized structure, free and accessible support services, interview-preparation programs, practical training and internship opportunities.
- Despite the program’s benefits, participants identified common challenges:
- Awareness about the program
- Difficulties in searching for a job and securing employment
- Program implementation, including transportation barriers, conflicts in scheduling and mismatches between the training provided and actual experience needed
- For some participants, the difficulty in completing training and obtaining necessary credentials led them to take low-wage, non-career-oriented jobs. This highlighted a need for more support systems within the program to help participants complete their training successfully.
- The prevalence of part-time employment due to the need for flexibility indicated that the program might need to offer more training and work-placement options to accommodate participants' complex life situations.
- Some participants pivoted to other industries due to immediate job availability and flexibility. This suggested a need for the program to address immediate financial need and provide interim support to keep participants engaged until they can secure health care positions.
- Participants who completed their training and secured health care positions found roles that offered career advancement and fulfillment, underscoring the potential of the program when support mechanisms are effective and aligned with participants' needs.
