We are proud to announce that the NBA Foundation has awarded $100,000 in grant funding to support the Right Track Youth Employment Program, strengthening access to paid work experiences, career exploration, and professional skill-building opportunities for young people across Saint Paul.
Right Track is a cornerstone of the city’s youth workforce ecosystem, connecting young people ages 14–24 to meaningful employment opportunities that build confidence, transferable skills, and long-term economic stability. Through internships, training, and mentorship, the program supports youth as they explore career pathways, develop professional networks, and prepare for success in the workforce.
Demand for youth employment opportunities in Saint Paul continues to grow, particularly among young people from cost-burdened households and those facing barriers to employment. Programs like Right Track help bridge this gap by pairing motivated youth with supportive employers, hands-on learning experiences, and structured professional development. These opportunities not only provide income, but also help young people gain clarity about their goals, build essential workplace skills, and develop confidence that carries into future careers.
Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez emphasized the importance of this investment and the long-standing partnership behind it.
We’re incredibly grateful to the NBA for this $100,000 investment in Right Track and in the young people of Saint Paul,” said Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez. “This grant provides critical operational support that allows us to continue connecting youth from cost-burdened households to meaningful internships, mentorship, and career pathways. Our long-standing partnership with the NBA reflects a shared commitment to equity, opportunity, and building the next generation of talent. Together, we’re helping young people gain the skills, confidence, and experience they need to succeed while strengthening Saint Paul’s workforce for the future
The Saint Paul Parks Conservancy, the nonprofit champion of the city’s parks and youth development efforts, also highlighted the broader impact of the NBA Foundation’s support.
“We’re thrilled that the NBA Foundation is investing in Saint Paul’s next generation workforce through Right Track internships, job training, and wealth equity financial education,” said Saint Paul Parks Conservancy President and Chief Parks Champion Michael-jon Pease. “The Timberwolves are in community with our youth—from offering free skills camps to renovating the gym at Hallie Q. Brown Community Center. They know that Saint Paul kids have real game when they’re given the opportunity to succeed.
Why This Grant Matters
This $100,000 investment from the NBA Foundation strengthens access to paid work experiences for young people across Saint Paul—supporting income, skill-building, and clear pathways to future careers at a critical stage of life.
Right Track by the Numbers
- Serves youth ages 14–24 across Saint Paul
- 1,000+ youth served annually
- 775 youth placed in internships
- 550 youth earn at least $1,000 in wages
- 85% develop work-readiness skills
- 90% leave with at least one
About Right Track and Our Role
Right Track brings together the City of Saint Paul, Saint Paul Public Schools, local businesses, and community-based organizations to provide employment opportunities and professional skills training for youth. Together, these partners are building a skilled and diverse workforce for the future.
Right Track operates out of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, building on the department’s long history of providing youth development and employment opportunities for Saint Paul youth. The Saint Paul Parks Conservancy serves as the nonprofit champion of the city’s parks, the Mississippi River corridor, and city-wide youth development—raising funds, building partnerships, and advocating for programs like Right Track that strengthen opportunity and equity across the city.
We are deeply grateful to the NBA Foundation and our partners for their continued investment in young people and the future of our community. Together, we are creating stronger pathways to opportunity and helping ensure Saint Paul’s youth have the tools, experiences, and support they need to thrive.