From the Globe Oakland Desk

The “YTeam,” a group of Measure Y-funded outreach workers from the City-County Neighborhood Initiative, Leadership Excellence and the Oakland Department of Human Services, hit the streets of West Oakland on Friday, Aug. 17 along with staff from the America Works employment program and hiring managers of local businesses, including House of Chicken and Waffles.

The team was joined by Josie Camacho, director of constituent services from the Mayor’s Office.

   Members of the YTeam have been on the streets of West Oakland for months, identifying and connecting with young people most likely to be involved in violence. In recent weeks, the team has coordinated with probation, parole and the Oakland Police Department to identify “hot spots” for concentrated intervention.
    The group’s most recent effort marked the first time that local employers with job openings joined the Y Team to offer concrete opportunities to young people who crave an alternative to street life.
    Hiring managers held preliminary interviews with approximately 25 youth and adults.
    While the recent efforts were focused on West Oakland, future Y Team activities will take place throughout Oakland.