Skratch to Match

Does Your Teen Want a Job? New app helps teens get work in their neighborhood.

by Karyn Brodsky

 

“Skratch is an opportunity to work and get paid for doing stuff I love to do.”

– Aidan Jacoby, pictured above far left, working alongside friends (l to r), Kara Eisenstat, Sydney Bennett, Kyle Prengler and Gavin Gold, at a recent Skratch event.

 

Know a teenager who’s itching to work and earn a little money? Tell them to Skratch.

Skratch, a new application launched in August 2016, matches teens with tasks. Lindsay Feldman, Director of Community Relations for Skratch, has used the app herself to hire capable teens. “Teens ages 14 to 19 and adults download and install the Skratch app on their mobile device. The teenager or ‘Skratcher’ enters matching criteria and selects a payment preference. He or she receives a list of gigs posted by adult ‘Seekers’ on a daily basis and selects a gig(s) to complete,” says Feldman. “Upon completion, the teen receives payment via the app to either a bank or Venmo account.”

Since the 2008 recession, fewer places hire teens. Developer Scott Bennett created Skratch as an on-demand application as a solution, allowing teenagers to earn money, learn responsibility, enhance work ethic and attain some financial independence.

Currently Skratch is available in four zip codes in Dallas, but Feldman says the company plans to expand its reach. They are also working with the United Way to impact lower socioeconomic areas with fewer job opportunities for teens.

Dallas teen Aidan Jacoby enjoys using the app. “Skratch is an opportunity to work and get paid for doing stuff I love to do,” he says. “It’s great because it works around my schedule and helps me manage time and learn skills.”

Aidan’s father, Dr. Rick Jacoby, says Skratch has been a wonderful way for Aidan to work during his free time. “He enjoys the gig variety, the ease of finding them, the flexible schedule and knowing he is working in a safe environment while making money,” says Dr. Jacoby. “He is learning the importance of balancing responsibilities and the value of a dollar.”

As a parent, Dr. Jacoby appreciates that Aidan is working in a safe environment and  that he can message his son through the app. “We recommend Skratch without hesitation to other parents,” he says.