Problem: Many low-income teens are unable to escape poverty without some sort of helping hand. Many programs have been developed to address this problem, but not all are successful at preparing participants for successful entry into the work force. Proposed Solution: The Work Force program in Cambridge, MA tries to take a slightly different approach from that used by other programs. It has a focus on employment, but starts working with people as young as thirteen; to be closer to the teens, it is located in the public housing projects. The program requires school attendance, offers additional classes and work experience, and also provides fun experiences. Over the course of the program, the teens have help in focusing their interests and abilities to choose a career path. Adults in the community and in the family are involved to provide a support network for the participants. Evaluation: The program has so far been successful. Support from the schools and the employers has been strong; participants have a fairly low drop out rate and are developing the necessary attitudes and skills to find employment. Contact: Steven J. Swanger, Director of Tenant Services, 270 Green St, Cambridge, MA 02139. Citation: "Innovations in State and Local Government 1990." New York: The Ford Foundation, 1990. pp 10-11. Keywords: poverty unemployment job training teenagers