DENVER (KDVR) — Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and Denver Public Schools are warning the public about a scam after several students reported receiving emails and postal mail from a company not affiliated with the city.
On Monday, the mayor announced new funding for the YouthWorks Initiative, which connects people 14-21 years old with job opportunities to keep young people busy and out of trouble while also garnering valuable skills over the summer. Those who work more than 100 hours between May 20 and Aug. 16 are offered a $1,000 stipend.
“This is a great way to get out there and to spend your time earning money, learning some new skills, and could turn into something that’s a long-term career,” Scott Pribble, director of communications for Denver Public Schools, told FOX31’s Rachel Saurer.
DPS said in a press release that since the announcement, students have been getting emails and postal mail from a different source promoting a similar program claiming it will help the student find a job and even offers a $1,000 bonus.
However, DPS said after the student provides their personal information, “the scam organization asks to send them money for services that never materialize.”
“The email is coming from what appears to be a DPS email account. It’s not truly a DPS email account, but the people who are up to no good have made it look as such,” Pribble said.
How to avoid the scam
DPS emphasized that the YouthWorks Initiative will never ask any applicant to pay to be included in the program.
“The more awareness people can have, I think is really helpful. And then, we will be reaching out to people who have clicked on the link to make sure that they’re aware that this is not valid information,” Pribble said.
Those interested in applying should visit the summer opportunities for youth page on the city’s website, where DPS said all the details and legitimate application links can be found.
DPS added that it is encouraging students to attend one of the hiring fairs happening this summer. The next event will be an in-person hiring fair on June 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the PPA Event Center, located at 2105 Decatur Street.
