It's a sign that summer holidays aren't far away for students in Manitoba. Youth Job Centres opened this week across the province, including ones in Steinbach, Niverville and St.Pierre.

The Youth Job Centre in Steinbach has moved back to 321 Main Street this year. Mia James-Thiessen is Youth Engagement Leader.

"I have done a lot of work with youth in previous jobs and really enjoyed it," she says. "I also want to help the teenagers in our community find work and to build their careers."

James-Thiessen explains Youth Job Centres are a free service offered to students aged 12 to 29. This job referral service allows youth to submit job applications and also accepts job orders from local businesses and homeowners.

"Our main goal is to facilitate employment for youth and students and to provide them with valuable job experience," she says.

And, according to James-Thiessen, work experience is the biggest obstacle preventing young people from being job ready. She notes that can be difficult for students when they are applying for a job.

James-Thiessen says the Centre gets all kinds of job offers, including casual, part-time, temporary and full time. She adds they also are hoping to host some Odd Job Squad events including a strawberry pick, barbecue and Mom's Pantry fundraiser.

Youth Job Centres will remain open until August 18.