The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) has connected generations of New Yorkers to their first job. For young people from low-income families and communities with fewer work opportunities, SYEP plays a vital role in ensuring they receive the experience, skills, and compensation to advance toward adulthood and a successful career.

Participation in NYC’s Summer Youth Employment Program has been linked to a variety of academic benefits. This report from the Community Service Society (CSS) proposes that NYC expand these benefits through a baselined, universal initiative aimed at enhancing the education and career development of all NYC high school students—universal summer jobs for NYC youth.

There is a dire need to increase career preparation opportunities for young people in New York City. This report presents lessons learned from model programs documented by Community Service Society (CSS) and guidance on how the city can enhance the existing Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).