SOLEDAD — More than 100 local youth gathered at the Soledad Community Center on April 12 for “The Real World Survival Guide (The Things They Don’t Teach You in School),” an interactive event hosted by the Soledad Parks and Recreation Department.
The workshop featured four hands-on sessions focused on essential life and workforce readiness skills, including resume building, financial literacy, cooking on a budget and basic auto maintenance. According to city officials, “These sessions equipped youth with practical tools to support their transition into adulthood and future career success.”
A Job and Career Fair, held in partnership with Monterey County Works, followed the workshop.
More than 15 organizations from various industries — including public service — participated, offering attendees valuable networking opportunities and insight into potential career pathways. Over 80 youth engaged directly with employers and received guidance on the job application process.
The event was part of Soledad’s participation in the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Workforce Development Community of Practice (CoP), a federally funded initiative supporting rural youth. Soledad was selected as one of only 10 communities nationwide to take part in the program.
City officials noted that registration far exceeded initial expectations, highlighting strong community interest in local youth workforce development.
