I've never had a problem hiring high school kids to chop weeds, cut grass, wash vehicles, help move things, and even help with home repairs. Hubby hires them to help with fencing, chopping wood and things like that too. I think many just think the kids won't want the jobs, too many buy into the mantra of "lazy American kids." I pay $10 an hour, and if the job is done quicker than I thought or it is an especially hot day or nasty work, I kick in a bonus at the end. I also serve sodas and food if they are working here at meal time. I have no idea what illegals would charge, and don't care. I would rather hire local kids.
All the kids that I have hired over the years have turned out well, a couple are serving in the Military, one is a diesel tech, a couple are in college. They stop by the house every once in a while just to visit. I had one young man that was a very hard worker and very polite and well mannered, he was always willing to do any job. I'm glad I treated him right, he is now a deputy sheriff here.
I agree. I know so many American young people who are eager and willing to do odd jobs--although many seem shocked at first by the idea that they can earn money without having to find a "real job" at a fast-food place (where increasingly they are not welcome unless they are fluent in Spanish) or retail outlet or instead of being dependent on their parents. We risk losing a lot of our national character and entrepreneurial spirit if we don't foster the opportunity and desire to earn an honest dollar for honest work in our future generations.
People should stop believing all the slander about today's young people and give them a chance.