Poughkeepsie … More than 150 young participants with various backgrounds and interests Wednesday completed the Department of Community and Family Services’ (DCFS) weeks-long Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), which empowers the youth and prepares them for success by providing invaluable real-world work experience and skill development, laying a strong foundation for their future careers. Wednesday’s SYEP graduation was coordinated by the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (DCWIB) and held at Dutchess BOCES in Salt Point.
The annual SYEP provides qualified students, ages 14 to 20 and whose families qualify for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), a 6-8 week-long course, which includes summer job placement, designed to help them prepare for future, permanent employment.
County Executive William F.X. O’Neil said, “Dutchess County can be immensely proud of today’s graduates and the dedication they've shown throughout the Summer Youth Employment Program. These young people have demonstrated an eagerness to learn and the determination to excel in the professional world. As they move forward, they carry with them the experience, knowledge and confidence that will undoubtedly propel them toward brighter futures."
Students who took part in the SYEP received job placements accompanied by mentorship – ranging in industry, skill level and geographic location – and worked an average of 20 hours per week at one of more than a dozen businesses throughout Dutchess County, including Discovery Children’s Museum, Hidden Hollow Farm, Gennie’s Soul Food Restaurant, Community Music Space and Taste Budd’s Café. Training coincided with the students’ employment throughout July and August, giving them the chance to learn skills, go back and apply those skills on the job, and then gather again to discuss which were successful. Through the WIB’s partnerships with local businesses, organizations and government agencies, participants were immersed in a diverse range of industries, including technology, healthcare, hospitality and more – exposure which not only helped participants discover their passions, but also paved the way for potential career paths.
Training topics included:
• problem-solving;
• teamwork;
• verbal and non-verbal communication;
• stress management;
• fundamental fiscal management concepts; and
• goal setting and employment strategies.
DCWIB Executive Director Louise McLoughlin said, “The Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board proudly partners with the Department of Community & Family Services to offer this impactful program, which makes a difference in so many young people’s lives. Wednesday’s graduates have learned critical lifelong skills this summer, and we hope they’ll continue to hone those skills as they prepare for their post-school life.”
The SYEP offered participants more than just work experience. Wednesday’s graduation, for example, included workshops and seminars designed to enhance essential skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving and financial literacy. Local business owners and experts in their respective fields led Wednesday’s sessions, aimed to provide the young people with a holistic development experience, and County Executive O’Neil shared his personal story, detailing his journey from military service and success in the private sector to his leadership roles in County government.
Through their participation in the program, hard work and dedication, the graduates of the 2023 Dutchess County SYEP are now better prepared to transition into higher education or the workforce. They have gained practical skills, expanded their networks and fostered a strong sense of responsibility and professionalism.
DCFS directed $535,230 to the DCWIB for the 2023 Summer Youth Employment Program from the federally funded TANF program. SYEP’s goal is for the young participants to enjoy a positive work experience while giving them an opportunity to be productive, explore career options and earn a certificate that confirms their readiness for entry-level work, as defined by employers across the country.
