Delaware Department of Labor launches virtual series to support young workers

The Labor Department’s new initiative begins Thursday, August 21. (Photo by Paperkites/Getty Images iStock Photo)

The Delaware Department of Labor is launching a new initiative aimed at strengthening employment opportunities and protections for the state’s youngest workers.

The “Delaware Youth Workforce Connect Call,” a monthly virtual series organized by the Department’s Division of Industrial Affairs, will debut on Thursday, August 21.

The series is designed to connect community organizations, educators, employers, and state agencies to share resources, provide updates, and support youth employment across Delaware.

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The initiative will focus on workers between the ages of 14 and 17, with the goal of educating both employers and young employees about workplace rights, safety, and job readiness.

“Our mission is to ensure Delaware employers understand their responsibilities while safeguarding the rights of workers — especially our youngest members of our workforce,” said Secretary of the Delaware Department of Labor LaKresha Moultrie. “The Delaware Youth Workforce Connect Call creates a space for collaboration, resource sharing, and compliance education that benefits both youth workers and employers.”

The first session will take place via Microsoft Teams from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and will feature a presentation on child labor laws, legislative updates affecting youth employment, and a preview of upcoming events aimed at preparing young people for the workforce.

In addition to presentations from labor officials, the sessions will offer a platform for participants to exchange tools, best practices, and ideas to promote safe and productive work environments for teens.

The Department encourages community organizations, workforce partners, educators, and employers to attend.

Jarek Rutz

Raised in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Jarek earned a B.A. in journalism and a B.A. in political science from Temple University in 2021. After running CNN’s Michael Smerconish’s YouTube channel, Jarek became a reporter for the Bucks County Herald before joining Delaware LIVE News.

Jarek can be reached by email at jarek@dimgrey-peafowl-504880.hostingersite.com or by phone at (215) 450-9982. Follow him on Twitter @jarekrutz and on LinkedIn.