About | Dallas Works

Relevant work-based learning experiences
Exposure to real workplaces and professionals
Opportunities to build communication and professional skills, confidence, and develop an open worldview
Digital badges to showcase achievements

Learn more about DW Career Ready Workshops here.

“I think this program is a great building block for starting a professional career. When I started with the All Stars back in March, I had no idea I would make this much progress in the professional workplace. I think anyone could benefit from having such support when finding internships as a high schooler or young adult.” (2025 Intern)

DW Internship Preparation

May - Early June

Youth. Application based. Workshop participants are given priority.

The Internship Prep Bootcamp includes:

The Bootcamp Orientation
20+ hours of intensive workplace readiness training
Mock job interview experience and feedback
Access to networking and leadership opportunities

Learn more about the DW Internship Prep Bootcamp here.

"Having a good community was amazing and refreshing. It helped me learn to deal with many kinds of people. This was crucial for my internship success." (2025 Intern)

Internship Supervisors. Assigned by internship host company.

The Supervisor Development Training includes:

3 hours of in-person training
Opportunities to hear from past interns and supervisors
Internship program support

DW Internship

Late June - Early August

Internships are 6-8 weeks; they are not guaranteed and are based on participant eligibility and internship availability.

Interns:

Work 20-40 hours per week
Earn minimum of $18/hour
Gain real-world job experience
Build professional relationships
Make meaningful contributions to their host companies
Receive support from Dallas Works staff and internship coaches

Learn more about the DW Summer Internship program here.

"Consistent support from my internship coach, regular communication with my supervisor, and collaboration with my intern peers all played a key role in helping me succeed." (2025 Intern)

"Through their eagerness to learn and strong work ethic, the interns supported daily operations and project success while allowing staff to focus on higher-level priorities and reinforcing the value of investing in the next generation of professionals." (2025 Internship Supervisor)

The Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program has provided hundreds of Dallas youth with valuable employment opportunities over the years. Dallas Works, powered by the All Stars Project since 2025, incorporates a proven “development through the power of performance” approach in which program participants consistently grow in eight dimensions of development that are relevant to work and more!

1. Interpersonal Competence

2. Giving

3. Appreciation

4. Vocational Competence

5. Open Worldview

6. Personal Responsibility

7. Improvisation

8. Confidence & Communication

Learn more about the Eight Dimensions of Development and the SMU Center on Research and Evaluation Outcome Study here.

Through after-school workshops hosted by local companies and civic organizations, participants expand their view of Dallas while practicing their professional performance, gaining workplace exposure, and connecting with professionals. The Phase 1 Dallas Works Career-Ready Workshops are the foundation for success in the selective Internship Prep Bootcamp and Summer Internship Program.

Dallas Works is a comprehensive program that provides Dallas-area youth (ages 16–21) with year-round, transformative, work-based learning experiences. Through experiential learning and real-world career exposure, participants grow as professionals and build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed at work and in life.

This free program offers: (1) Career Ready Workshops, (2) an Internship Prep Bootcamp (application required), and (3) an opportunity for a paid summer internship at local businesses, the City of Dallas, or a nonprofit organization.