Summer Youth Employment Program
Published on May 07, 2026
The Genesee County Summer Youth Employment Program, also known as SYEP, 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.
The program 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.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for the Summer Youth Employment Program, 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
How to apply
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.
Program schedule
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.
Types of work experience
Traditional job opportunities through SYEP have included:
- Maintenance
- Clerical work
- Camp and recreation programs
- Cultural programs
- Childcare
- Food service and kitchen work
- Retail services
Information for employers
The Summer Youth Employment 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.
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.
More information
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.