The Department of Social Services is recruiting employers throughout Erie, County to participate in the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), an eight-week program operating from July 10, 2017 through September 1, 2017 that will serve youth between the ages of 14 and 20 years of age. Youth work in the community at worksites known as SYEP providers.

“SYEP participants are Erie County residents between the ages of 14 and 20 and are enthusiastic, not just about earning some money this summer, but about building their resumes with good work experience, acquiring career oriented skills, and attaining marketable skills to help them prepare for the workplace,” said Department of Social Services Commissioner Al Dirschberger. “Employers play a critical role in this program by providing an opportunity for training, career exposure, the development of workforce readiness skills, good supervision and appropriate safety protocols.”

The SYEP pays the youth’s wages at the current minimum wage rate of $9.70 and all applicable payroll and workers compensation taxes. In addition to being placed at a worksite, participants will be attending training classes promoting life-skill development, work readiness skills, financial literacy, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Youth are expected to follow the same work routine and procedures that a regular employee would follow related to attendance, breaks, attire, job expectations, behavior, feedback and correction, and if necessary, disciplinary procedures.

Employers interested in providing opportunities for youth placements through the SYEP should contact Donna Robb of the Erie County Department of Social Services Employment Division by calling (716) 858-4584 or emailing Donna.Robb@erie.gov.

For more information:

About the Summer Youth Employment Program, visit www.erie.gov/syep