County ETCS Receives Federal Funds for Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

Washtenaw County will receive federal funds to support the 2009 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), thanks to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

These funds will allow Washtenaw County's department of Employment Training and Community Services (ETCS) to provide summer employment and career experience for eligible young people between the ages of 14 and 24.  It will also provide area employers with the chance to participate in providing sponsored employment opportunities for eligible young persons. 

"The Recovery Act is providing the resources for our young people to obtain a summer job that will help them gain valuable work experience and income.  It also provides area employers with a chance to provide an earn and learn opportunity at no cost", noted Trenda Rusher, Executive Director of ETCS.  

ETCS and its Workforce Development Board are excited about this new commitment of federal funds to SYEP - a valuable program that strives to prepare our young people for real-world work expectations, career instruction, financial literacy, academic improvement and social growth.

During this summer, SYEP will provide employment opportunities for approximately 600 low income young people who also meet one or more of the following criteria:  deficient in basic literacy skills; school dropout; homeless, runaway, or foster child; pregnant or parenting; offender; or is an individual requiring additional assistance to complete an educational program, or to secure and hold employment (including youth with a disability). 

SYEP will engage the talents and interests of youth, developing their skills and competencies, and providing positive adult role models.  A meaningful age appropriate work experience is the core component of the program.  SYEP participants will have the chance to not just earn money this summer but to build their resume by acquiring valuable work experience. 
SYEP opportunities will take place at government agencies, educational institutions, hospitals, nonprofits and private sector businesses.  

ETCS is currently in the planning and early implementation stages of this summer's program and will soon release a Request for Proposal (RFP) for organizations interested in operating a project through the SYEP or for the agencies and employers who would like to host a youth through the SYEP, a request to be a worksite will soon be available as well.

For more information please email summerjobs@ewashtenaw.org