Summer Youth Employment returns

The Summer Youth Employment Program, which was nearly cut from the city’s budget last year, is back in-person in 2021.  Photo via nyc.gov

By Jacob Kaye

The Summer Youth Employment Program, which offers teens and young adults paid gigs throughout the summer season, is back. 

Interested employers can apply to connect with New York City youth between the ages of 14 and 24, who are looking to explore work opportunities and get paid work experience. 

“When I say recovery for all of us, I mean all of us, especially young New Yorkers,” de Blasio said in a statement. “The Summer Youth Employment Program is back and providing teens and young adults with a paycheck and the skills they need to build a stronger future for themselves and our City.” 

As the city grappled with the pandemic last year, de Blasio nearly cut the program entirely before instead opening a remote option that would go on to serve 35,000 teens and young adults, according to the city. 

This year, the program has opened up to 75,000 people. 

“The Summer Youth Employment Program is one of our most valuable programs for engaging youth and providing them with a wealth of diverse experiences,” said City Councilmember I. Daneek Miller. “For many young people it’s often their first job experience, giving them valuable professional skills that last a lifetime. After fighting to keep the program last year, it’s exciting to be welcoming this new cohort for in-person opportunities.”

The program lasts for six weeks and participants are paid directly by New York State. 

Employers can apply on a first come, first serve basis, by visiting nyc.gov/SYEP. 

Employers should be prepared to list their basic information, needs for the summer and a timeline. Once applying, a member of the Department of Youth and Community Development will reach out regarding next steps.