Arc Broward Celebrates First Jobs And Paychecks For Young Adults With Disabilities At Youth Links Summer Finale

The event featured student reflections, recognition of employer partners and a certificate ceremony where each intern crossed the stage before family, friends and community supporters.

“This celebration is about so much more than completing a summer internship, it’s about recognizing the confidence, skills and independence these young adults have built along the way,” said Julie Price, President and CEO of Arc Broward. “Through Youth Links and the commitment of our employer partners, our students are gaining meaningful work experience and taking important steps toward successful futures. We are incredibly proud of each student and grateful to the businesses that opened their doors and invested in their potential.”

Youth Links is an experiential learning program of Arc Broward that prepares students with disabilities ages 15 to 21 for post-secondary education, training and employment. During the school year, students participate in a series of learning experiences addressing career development, social skills, life skills, self-determination and advocacy through a combination of classroom and real-life settings. In the summer, students have the opportunity to participate in paid summer employment, ranging from 16 to 30 hours per week, where they gain valuable work experience while building independence, confidence and social skills that support their successful transition into adulthood.

The program is funded in part by the Children's Services Council of Broward County. For more information about Arc Broward's workforce development programs, visit: https://arcbroward.com/arcworks.

About Arc Broward

In 2026, Arc Broward proudly celebrates 70 years as a leading provider of services that empower individuals with disabilities and their families to thrive. Today, Arc Broward is focused on opening doors, creating pathways and expanding opportunities through 24 programs at 16 locations across Broward County, serving individuals with disabilities from preschool children to adults and seniors. Its two social enterprises, Arc Educates and Arc Culinary, help people with disabilities and various employment barriers gain education, experience and employment. For more information about Arc Broward, visit: https://arcbroward.com. Or call: (954) 746-9400.