Connecting youth and young adults to education and career pathway opportunities to help them envision their future
United Way Bay Area’s Youth Opportunity Pathways program connects Bay Area youth and young adults to career education, exploration, and readiness opportunities. We partner with local nonprofit organizations and schools to provide access to hands-on learning and real-world experiences.
Through corporate partnerships, the Youth Opportunity Pathways program offers dynamic professional development workshops. Skilled volunteers lead sessions on resume writing, mock interviews, workplace tours, and immersive career demonstrations—equipping participants with practical skills and valuable insights for future success.
We believe Bay Area youth should have a voice in shaping their futures. By actively involving young people in designing career exploration opportunities and Youth Opportunity Pathways programming, we ensure youth are included in spaces where they can co-create meaningful career pathways.
STEM / Arts / Manufacturing / Banking / Financial / Healthcare / Trades / Retail + more
Career Panels / Workplace Tours / On Track Career Expo / Career Development Planning / Education Counseling / Community Advisory Council
Academic Support / Financial Resources / Internships / Soft Skills Training / Resume Review / Practice Interviews / Community Advisory Council
Launched in 2016, On Track is a YOP initiative developed with the San Francisco Unified School District’s African American Achievement and Leadership Initiative. The program introduces rising 9th and 10th graders to a range of careers and local employers, helping students see how their education links to future career success.
Through youth focus groups and exploring different intervention strategies, we found that intentional career exploration—combined with strong connections to high school programs—significantly increases student engagement and motivation in school.
“I enjoyed the experience and learned a lot of valuable knowledge”
“Even though some people would be nervous to talk or speak out, the adults reach out to get the youth to participate and as a shy person I appreciate that.”
Are you a Bay Area organization interested in connecting your youth with career exploration opportunities? United Way Bay Area partners with nonprofits, schools, and school districts to provide career exploration events—including On Track, career tours, panels, resume workshops, mock interviews, and hiring events throughout the year. If your organization would like to host or participate in a career event for youth and young adults, please use the contact form below.
Support local youth by volunteering at On Track or other career exploration events. Opportunities include resume reviews, serving on a career panel, or leading interactive demos related to your industry. Visit our UWBA volunteer page for current opportunities and subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed on upcoming opportunities..
Interested in hosting a career exploration or hiring event for Bay Area youth and young adults? Use the contact form below to connect with our team and discover how your company can get involved.
Discover how the United Way Bay Area On Track Career Expo connects diverse young people ages 14–21 with real-world career opportunities in Oakland. This inspiring event features professionals who share industry insights, education pathways, and practical advice to help Black and Brown youth from low-income communities envision and achieve their career goals. Watch the video to see how mentorship, representation, and hands-on learning are helping to build a more equitable future for all.