Summer Youth Employment

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Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

The Genesee County Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) helps eligible youth ages 14 through 20 gain work experience, earn a paycheck and build skills for future employment.

The program works to place participants in jobs within their own communities whenever possible. Worksites may include local businesses, schools, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Placements are intended to provide meaningful work experience, mentoring and an opportunity to begin building a resume.

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.

Summer Youth Employment Program Interest Form

How do I qualify for SYEP?

To be eligible for SYEP, you must:

  • Be at least 14 years old and no older than 20 years old
  • Permanently live in Genesee County, New York
  • Have a family income at or below 200% of the poverty level

How do I apply for SYEP?

Call (585) 344-2042 to be added to the waiting list. You will be contacted for a mandatory orientation meeting and an intake interview and will be required to complete an application.

When does SYEP start?

SYEP begins with mandatory training, usually scheduled shortly after school ends for the summer. After training, the program is typically five weeks long and is tentatively scheduled to begin during the first week of July and continue through August.

How much will I get paid?

SYEP participants earn the New York State minimum wage, currently $16 per hour, and typically work 20 hours per week.

How will I know if I am selected to participate in SYEP?

You will receive a call for an orientation session and intake meeting. These steps help determine your eligibility and confirm your interest in the program.

Do I need working papers?

Yes, if you are age 14 through 17. A blue card is required for ages 14 through 15, and a green card is required for ages 16 through 17.

How do I obtain working papers?

Get a working papers application from your school office. If you are not attending school or are applying during a school vacation, contact the school nearest your home for information about the appropriate certifying office.

The application requires:

  • The signature of a parent or guardian
  • Proof of age, such as a birth or baptism record, driver's license, state-issued photo ID, school record or passport
  • A written statement from a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant stating that you are physically fit to work

What other documentation is required?

At your eligibility intake interview, you must provide:

  • Social Security card
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status, such as:
    • Birth certificate
    • Passport
    • New York State driver's license
    • New York State non-driver photo ID
    • Unexpired Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt Card, Form I-551
  • Total family income for the past six months, such as year-to-date pay stubs, Form 1040 or 1040A, public assistance documentation, SSI or SSD award letters, an official foster care letter, Medicaid, SNAP and/or HEAP documentation

The applicant must complete and sign all intake paperwork. If the applicant is under age 18, a parent or legal guardian must attend and sign the required paperwork.

All Summer Youth Employment Program supporting documents are due at the intake interview.

Do I work on weekends or evenings?

Potentially.

Do I work overtime?

No. SYEP cannot pay overtime. Participants cannot work more than 40 hours per week. If a worksite asks you to work overtime, you must notify your SYEP counselor.

Do I have to attend orientation if I attended last year?

Yes. If you are selected to participate in SYEP, you must attend orientation each year. Orientation covers information intended to help you have a successful summer work experience.

Can I request the same job I had last year?

You may make a request, but there is no guarantee that the same job will be available.

What types of summer jobs are available?

SYEP has traditionally offered jobs in areas such as:

  • Maintenance
  • Clerical work
  • Camp and recreation
  • Cultural programs
  • Childcare
  • Food service and kitchen work
  • Retail services

Participants may work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations or local businesses.

Am I guaranteed a job after applying?

No. Submitting an application, attending orientation and completing an intake interview do not guarantee employment.