State tax credits fund youth work program

State tax credits approved by the Missouri Department of Economic Development will help fund a youth employment program provided by Leggett & Platt Machine Products in Carthage.

The $86,974 in tax credits, available through the Youth Opportunities Program, will leverage at least $173,948 in contributions for Leggett & Platt's Student Learner Program. The program serves students from the Carthage School District who have been deemed "at-risk."

The program stresses teamwork with technical classes and hands-on activities. The program is designed to teach at-risk youth basic employment skills, while giving them a focus and motivation to stay in school and complete their education.

"The Youth Opportunities Program enables the state to partner with local organizations and businesses to help prepare our youth for a bright future," said Department of Economic Development Director Kelvin L. Simmons, in a news release. "We are proud that so many of Missouri's businesses such as Leggett & Platt recognize the importance of investing in our youth. Their dedication is invaluable in helping these students develop academically and socially."

YOP is part of the Department of Economic Development's Community Development Division. The program is designed to broaden and strengthen opportunities for positive development in community life for youth, and to discourage such persons from engaging in criminal and violent behavior.

Through YOP, contributors to approved projects can receive up to a 50 percent partial state tax credit for their donation. Approval of these tax credits is contingent upon completion of contracts set forth by the program.