In order to create more career-driven youth the City of Little Rock had the idea to implement a Summer Youth Employment program. Through this program students were paired with private business as well as government agencies to acquire skills that will increase future employability. Additionally, this program revved up local economic spending. This document explains how the program came about as well the challenges faced. The program has been nominated for the 2016 Local Government Excellence Awards in the category of Community Partnership (populations of 50,000 and greater).