In our research, we found that 25% of young adults in Charleston County ages 16-24 are unemployed and looking for work. African American young adults in that same age group experience an unemployment rate of 39%.
In April 2014, CAJM gained commitments from Mayor Riley to write a hiring policy which would help increase the hiring of young adults for unskilled, entry-level positions within city public works construction projects. A hiring policy has been written and we continue to work with City officials and local organizations such as SC Works to get the policy passed and working for the young people in our community.