The United States government has not adequately addressed the problem of youth unemployment. The unemployment rate among youth remains two and a half times that of adults. The rate for black youth is considerably higher. Low labor force participation rates among youth have serious social and economic consequences. In the south the problem will continue unless appropriate interventions are implemented. Four programs successful in this area are presented. They are the following: (1) an alternative school program in Atlanta, Georgia, that finds youth who are in trouble, allows them to finish high school in a nontraditional setting, and guides their entrance into the work force; (2) a summer program in San Antonio, Texas, that assists Hispanic school-age women to develop the self concept necessary to succeed in non-traditional jobs; (3) a high school program in Liberty City, Florida, that helps at-risk school age youth with career planning; and (4) a work-to-school transition program in North Carolina that assists at-risk youth who are not on a college or vocational track. (VM)