Today’s youth are dealing with a radically different labour market where entry level roles are shrinking, the competition is growing and technology is changing the hiring landscape.
Meanwhile systemic barriers continue to limit opportunities for far too many young people.
At close to 17% Toronto’s youth unemployment rate is higher than the national or provincial average.
What’s to be done? Lots.
The Toronto Youth Employment Table was convened by United Way Greater Toronto and the City of Toronto to take coordinated action on youth employment. It brings together community organizations, employers, funders, City divisions and youth-serving partners, including UWGT-funded agencies The Neighbourhood Group, ACCES Employment and Findhelp to develop job hunt resources and create opportunities for meaningful employment.
August 2026 we’re celebrating the close to 2,000+ young people who found challenging jobs this past summer through the United Way Greater Toronto network of agencies and the City of Toronto, with the support of the Canada Summer Job Program.
And we’re continuing to work together to open more doors for young people. Because good first jobs build brighter futures and stronger communities.
Job seekers: Looking for help?
Check out the Youth Employment Services Chatbot!
Find a summer job. Build skills. Get support.
This portal connects you to paid employment opportunities and free job support close to home. Whether you’re looking for your first job or your next one, this is a place to start!
Employers: Looking to help?
Employers have a key role to play in supporting youth in finding work opportunities and pathways to rewarding careers. Consider making a commitment to the next generation by signing on to the Toronto Youth Employment Charter, an initiative of the Toronto Youth Employment Table. See the full charter and check out the list of signatories — you’ll be in good company.
To learn more, please connect with us here.
Toronto’s future depends on a strong pipeline of skilled, engaged, and diverse talent. By investing in youth, employers can strengthen their workforce, bring fresh perspectives to their organizations, and help build a more prosperous and inclusive city.
While many young people are eager to work and contribute, too many face barriers to gaining the skills, experience, networks, and opportunities needed to enter the workforce. Youth unemployment in Toronto is unacceptably high and expanding access to meaningful employment opportunities has never been more important.
The Toronto Youth Employment Charter invites employers to create meaningful work opportunities and pathways to long-term successes for young people. By signing the Charter, organizations join a community of employers committed to attracting, developing and retaining the next generation of talent, while helping build a stronger, more inclusive economy for Toronto.
Charter Vision
We envision a Toronto where every young person has access to meaningful employment opportunities, the support they need to succeed, and pathways to rewarding careers.
Guiding Principles
- Great First Jobs
We provide quality work experiences that offer fair pay, safe and supportive workplaces, and opportunities for learning, skill development and growth. - Opportunity For All
We reduce barriers and expand opportunities for youth who have historically faced structural inequities, including Indigenous, Black, newcomer, 2SLGBTQ+ youth, and youth with disabilities. - Youth Voice
We value youth voices and create meaningful opportunities for young people to shape employment programs, policies, and workplace practices that affect them.
- Collaboration and Partnership
We partner with government, schools, and community organizations to share best practices and connect young people with the supports they need to succeed. - Careers That Last
We support young people in building the skills, experience, and connections that lead to long-term, fulfilling careers.
Signators to the Youth Employment Charter, commit to advancing these principles within our organization and to working collectively toward a future where every young person in Toronto can thrive in the workforce.
Signators to the Toronto Youth Employment Charter
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