POUGHKEEPSIE … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino recently celebrated more than 150 young people who completed the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services’ (DCFS) 2026 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), recognizing their hard work and commitment as they gained valuable job experience, built workplace skills and explored future career opportunities. Coordinated by the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (DCWIB), SYEP gives income-eligible students the opportunity to earn a paycheck while developing the skills and confidence needed to succeed in school, the workplace and beyond.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Congratulations to all the students who completed this year’s Summer Youth Employment Program! It was wonderful to see these young people show up, work hard and grow throughout the summer. They gained valuable experience, learned new skills and built confidence along the way. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments with them and support opportunities that help them take steps toward a successful future.”
The annual Summer Youth Employment Program serves eligible youth ages 14 through 20 whose families qualify for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Over the course of six to eight weeks, participants strengthen essential workplace skills through hands-on training focused on communication, teamwork, problem-solving, financial literacy, goal setting, stress management and career readiness.
Students also gain real-world work experience through paid placements with 22 local employers, working an average of 20 hours each week during the summer. Throughout the program, participants meet regularly to reflect on their experiences, share what they have learned and receive continued guidance from program staff and mentors.
The graduation ceremony was held at Dutchess BOCES in Salt Point, where participants celebrated their accomplishments alongside family members, employers and community partners. Graduates also took part in a career fair featuring more than 33 local employers and organizations, participated in small-group discussions with business leaders, learned about educational opportunities at Dutchess Community College and attended financial literacy workshops.
This year’s participants worked in a variety of settings across Dutchess County, giving them exposure to careers in education, healthcare, government, retail, nonprofit organizations, hospitality and other industries. These experiences help students discover new interests while building a strong foundation for future employment.
Participants explored entry-level career opportunities, training programs and industry credentials with employers and workforce partners. They also participated in interactive career exploration activities using virtual reality technology and robotics.
Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board Executive Director Louise McLoughlin said, “Each summer, we watch young people grow through the Summer Youth Employment Program. They leave with real work experience, stronger skills and greater confidence. They also build relationships that will help them in the future. We thank our employer partners for opening their doors and helping these students take their next step.”
DCFS hosted the 2026 Summer Youth Employment Program utilizing $601,494 in federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
DCFS Commissioner Sabrina Jaar Marzouka said, “The lessons young people learn in their first job can shape their future. Our Summer Youth Employment Program gives students the chance to build real skills, take on new challenges and see what they're capable of. Those experiences will stay with them long after the summer ends. We congratulate each graduate and wish them all the best as they take their next steps.”
