Press release
GENESEE COUNTY, NY — Genesee County youth looking for summer employment may be eligible to
participate in the Summer Youth Employment Program, also known as SYEP.
The program provides eligible youth ages 14 to 20 with an opportunity to earn a paycheck, gain valuable
job skills and build real-world work experience during the summer months. SYEP works to place youth
in jobs within their own communities whenever possible, matching participants with local businesses,
schools, government agencies and nonprofit organizations that can provide meaningful experience and
mentorship.
To be eligible for SYEP, applicants must:
- Be at least 14 years old, but not over 20 years old
- Permanently reside in Genesee County, New York
- Have a family income at or below 200% of the poverty level
Youth interested in participating should call (585) 344-2042 or fill out the SYEP Interest Form online.
Applicants will be contacted for a mandatory orientation meeting and intake interview, and will be
required to complete an application.
SYEP begins with mandatory training, typically scheduled shortly after school lets out for the summer.
After training, the program is generally a five-week employment opportunity, tentatively beginning the
first week of July and continuing through August.
Traditional job opportunities through SYEP have included maintenance, clerical work, camp and
recreation programs, cultural programs, childcare, food service and kitchen work, and retail services.
The program also relies on partnerships with local employers who are willing to provide meaningful
work opportunities and mentorship to emerging workers. Participating employers help youth build skills,
gain confidence and explore potential career paths while supporting the long-term strength of the local
workforce.
For businesses, the program can serve as a trial work experience with the option to hire at the end of
the placement. Wages are paid through Genesee County Job Development, and there is no obligation
for employers to hire after the experience concludes. Placements are made with career interests in mind
whenever possible, helping connect motivated youth with businesses and organizations that can provide
valuable workplace experience.
Employers who participate also serve as community partners, helping train and mentor the emerging
workforce while supporting economic stability throughout Genesee County.
Businesses interested in learning more about work experience opportunities may contact the Genesee
County Job Development Bureau at (585) 344-2042 ext. 4237 or email Lisa.Smith@geneseeny.gov
The Summer Youth Employment Program is funded by the New York State Office of Temporary and
Disability Assistance in partnership with the Genesee County Department of Social Services.
For more information, visit geneseeny.gov/syep or call (585) 344-2042