Warren County Department of Workforce Development has begun accepting applications for its Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), which provides jobs for youths between the ages of 14 and 20 and helps local businesses get through the busy summer season.
The program, which is funded by federal grants, provides work experience and training to qualified youth to help them develop skills they need to succeed in the workforce. There are family income guidelines to be met by applicants in order to qualify for the program.
The youth who are hired are assigned to work at a variety of worksites -- including non-profit organizations, private businesses and government worksites -- around Warren County for about 8 weeks starting in late June. Youth who are enrolled in the Summer Youth Employment Program for 2025 will earn $15.50 per hour.
Worksites for 2025 are being finalized, but in recent years participants have been placed with town highway departments, parks and recreation departments, school districts, campgrounds, farms, and a variety of private businesses. In addition to employment experience, participants are provided with employment counseling, financial literacy and educational content to ensure success at their summer job.
Pre-application can be done through this link, and applications for prospective workers are due by April 30, 2025. Those who have questions, or are interested in applying, can email shermank@warrencountyny.gov or call/text 518-681-2532.
Businesses that would like to host a worker or workers for the summer are being recruited, and businesses that are interested can fill out an interest form here.
Liza Ochsendorf, Warren County Director of Workforce Development, said: “This is one of the most popular programs we offer because it’s mutually beneficial for everyone. It is free help for businesses and organizations, it provides skill building opportunities for youth, supports families with an additional paycheck, and connects our generations in our Warren County communities. The best way we can ensure that young people stay local when they finish their education is by making sure they have local connections with employers.”
Warrensburg Supervisor Kevin Geraghty, Chairman of the Warren County Board of Supervisors and Warrensburg Town Supervisor, said: “The Town of Warrensburg has had great experiences with Summer Youth Employment Program workers for many years, as they have helped us keep our summer recreation programs going. The Summer Youth Employment Program provides valuable work experience for our youth while also helping local businesses and organizations find staff for the summer.”
The grant funding for Summer Youth Employment Program is administered by the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and overseen by Warren County Department of Workforce Development. Learn more about what the agency does at swwworkforce.org.
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