Oak Park NEXT (Navigating Employment and eXperience Training) is a youth internship program that bridges the gap between education and real-world experience. Designed for Oak Park residents aged 14-21, this initiative connects students to meaningful, paid internships, giving them hands-on exposure to local businesses, practical skills development, and increase students' upward economic mobility. At its core, Oak Park NEXT is about empowering the community’s youth to realize their potential while supporting businesses in overcoming staffing challenges and creating a sustainable pipeline of future talent.

Business Applications for the Summer 2025 Cohort are due MARCH 19th. 
Student Applications for the Summer 2025 cohort have closed. Apply for Fall 2025 by July 18th.

How It Works

Oak Park NEXT is a selective internship program designed to create meaningful connections between local businesses and young talent, ensuring both students and employers benefit from a structured, supportive experience. Each cohort is limited to 20 students and 20 businesses, ensuring a high-quality, personalized experience for all participants.

• Application & Matching: Interested students and businesses must complete an application outlining their goals, skills, and needs. The Chamber carefully reviews applications and conducts a matching process to pair students with businesses that align with their career interests and skill development goals.
• Training & Support: Prior to beginning their internships, students participate in a preparatory training session to set expectations and build workplace readiness skills. Businesses also receive guidance on best practices for hosting interns, including mentorship strategies and compliance requirements.
• Ongoing Monitoring: The Chamber provides continuous support through structured check-ins, ensuring both interns and businesses are on track to meet their goals. This includes feedback sessions, skill development evaluations, and troubleshooting assistance.
• Completion & Evaluation: At the end of the internship, students and businesses participate in a reflection process to assess achievements, gather feedback, and explore potential ongoing employment or mentorship opportunities.

For Businesses

Partnering with Oak Park NEXT allows businesses to invest in the future workforce while receiving financial and strategic support.

• Exclusive Opportunity: With only 20 businesses accepted per cohort, participants receive personalized support and access to top local talent.
• Access Motivated Local Talent: Connect with students eager to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting.
• Financial Incentives: Businesses receive 75% wage reimbursement, reducing hiring costs while fostering career development opportunities for young professionals.
• Support & Training: The Chamber provides mentorship resources, structured intern check-ins, and administrative support to ensure a smooth and effective internship experience.
• Community Impact: Increase your business’s visibility as a leader in workforce development, contributing to the economic vitality and professional growth of Oak Park’s future workforce.
• Long-Term Hiring Pipeline: Build relationships with emerging talent who may become long-term employees after gaining experience with your business.

For Students

Oak Park NEXT offers students an opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience while earning a competitive wage.

• Limited Spots Available: With only 20 students per cohort, each intern receives personalized mentorship and hands-on learning experiences.
• Earn While You Learn: Interns receive $15 per hour, providing meaningful financial support while gaining workplace experience.
• Develop Job Skills: Learn essential professional skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving—critical for any career path.
• Expand Professional Networks: Work directly with experienced mentors and industry professionals, building connections that can support future career growth.
• Receive Training & Mentorship: Each intern benefits from structured training sessions and dedicated mentorship to help navigate workplace expectations and career planning.
• Enhance Career Readiness: Gain valuable resume-building experience and professional confidence, setting the stage for future employment opportunities.

By participating in Oak Park NEXT, both businesses and students contribute to a stronger, more connected workforce that benefits the entire Oak Park community.

Eligibility for Students

Students must meet the following criteria to participate in Oak Park NEXT:

Residency & School Enrollment

• Must be an Oak Park Resident AND attend a school in Oak Park (District 200 or District 97) or
• Be an Oak Park resident attending college or a private school outside the area.

Age Requirement

• Participants must be between 14 and 21 years old.
• Students under 16 years old must obtain a work permit before starting their internship.

Academic Standing & Behavioral Expectations

• Students must be in good academic standing and meet behavioral expectations, verified through school records or references.

Eligibility for Businesses

Businesses must meet the following criteria to participate in Oak Park NEXT:

Business Location & Standing

• Businesses must be based in Oak Park.
• Businesses must have a valid Oak Park Business License.
• Businesses must be in good standing with the Village of Oak Park.

Beyond these requirements, the Chamber will evaluate businesses based on key selection criteria to ensure the best fit for students and maximize program impact.

Business Selection Criteria

Businesses that meet the eligibility requirements will be evaluated based on:

Capacity for Mentorship

• Each intern must be assigned a dedicated mentor, with no mentor overseeing more than two interns.
• Mentors should have at least two years of professional experience in their field.
• Businesses must dedicate at least five hours per month to mentorship activities, including training and career development.

Educational Value

• At least 25 percent of internship hours must focus on structured training in areas such as marketing, finance, or customer service.
• Businesses should provide a list of three key skills interns will develop.
• Interns should be assigned at least one meaningful project during their internship.

Clear & Defined Internship Roles

• Businesses must submit a job description with clear roles, responsibilities, and learning outcomes.
• Positions should align with intern skills and career interests.
• Interns must work 20 hours per week for 12 weeks.

Additional Considerations

• Preference is given to businesses actively involved in the Oak Park community through events, partnerships, or sponsorships.
• Businesses demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion in hiring practices will be prioritized.