Each of the awardees has provided a broad range of services necessary to enable youth to develop the skills and competencies needed to get a job and become self-sufficient. They have also contributed to and reinforced the lessons learned about effective youth employment/development programs. PEPNet has identified 12 lessons about effective youth programs that administrators and staff, funders, policymakers, and local communities should consider in supporting, designing, and implementing youth employment programs. The lessons learned are as follows: (1) there is no single model for effective youth employment programs; (2) work can and should be a positive youth developmental activity; (3) variety in work-force development approaches makes it possible to tailor services to individual needs; (4) establish effective, innovative connections with the private sector; (5) incorporate opportunities for community service; (6) leverage resources and funding through collaboration and partnership; (7) provide extended services; (8) structure strong, long-term relationships with competent, caring adults; (9) hire and develop quality staff; (10)commit to continuous improvement; (11) emphasize family and/or peer support; and (12) recognize and respond to age and developmental needs.