The Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico will receive nearly $2.6 million in federal stimulus money for programs throughout the central region, with $1.2 million for summer youth employment programs in Bernalillo, Sandoval, Torrance and Valencia Counties. The funds are intended to help stimulate economic growth in the region.

“This stimulus money provides opportunities to invest in our youth,” says Lawrence Rael, Executive Director for the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “This is the first time the state has seen special funding for summer youth programs since 1999. As a former summer youth participant, I know how beneficial this can be to young people and their families in a tough economy.”

Young men and women ages 16 - 24 can apply for the 10-week summer program. Eligibility for the program will be based on family financial income. Participants will be placed at work-sites in May through early September, with extended work periods for those ages 18-24, where available.

The recruitment process has already begun. The Workforce Connection is distributing information to local high schools.  Additionally, public and private employers are being recruited to provide local work-sites.

“We’re delighted that the young people of our region will have opportunities for summer employment,” says Bob Davey, chair of the Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico Board.

Other Workforce programs will benefit from the stimulus monies as follows: 

• $712,120 for Dislocated Worker Programs 
• $459,661 for Adult Programs

About the New Mexico Workforce Connection

The Mid-Region Council of Governments is the administrative entity and fiscal agent for the New Mexico Workforce Connection in the central region of the state (Bernalillo, Torrance, Sandoval and Valencia Counties). The program receives both state (New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions) and federal funding (under the Workforce Investment Act). The central New Mexico Workforce Connection works to support industries, help businesses become competitive and profitable, and grow workers who are skilled and productive.

Contact for the youth program: Jerilynn Sans ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it )

Contact for other Workforce programs:  Pat Newman ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it )