EBACC Launches Rent-A-Kid Adams County

Holds First Sign-Up for Residents & Youth

Adams County residents looking for help with yard work and household chores, and area youth between the ages of 12 and 17 that are eager and responsible to do the temporary work, are invited to attend the East Berlin Area Community Center’s first Rent-A-Kid Adams County sign-up day Saturday, June 6, 2009, at 10:00 am. The community outreach program matches Adams County youth with area residents looking to hire them to do a range of chores including lawn mowing, mulching, dog walking, snow shoveling and other odd jobs.

“This program is unique in that, as far as we know, this is the first Rent-A-Kid program in Adams County,” said Kim Weaver, Director of Programs at the community center. “We are excited to be involved in a program whose philosophy has proved very successful in other cities and towns across the country. We believe it is a wonderful opportunity for fostering positive relationships between many generations.”

When EBACC gets a request from a resident, the center will try to match a youth in the program who lives near the job. The resident then calls the youth and makes the final arrangements which include the work to be done, when it is to be done, and the rate of pay. Although the recommended pay is not less than $5 an hour, the rate is always negotiated between the two parties. Parents are encouraged to meet the individuals asking their kids for help before any chores are performed.

“At the sign-up, we will explain what is required of everyone in order to participate,” said Weaver. “EBACC serves as the referral agent only. Ultimately, the success of the program depends entirely on the kids and the consumers hiring them.”

*A parent or guardian must attend the sign-up day with their child and all parties will have an opportunity to ask questions. For more information contact EBACC at 717-259-8848.