City of Seattle, WA
08/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/27/2024 18:01
SYEP Interns in the Spotlight
In mid-August, Seattle Youth Employment Program (SYEP) interns, supervisors, program staff, and family members celebrated the end of the 2024 summer program. Always a joyous event, this year's event highlighted the work of 251 interns who spent six weeks exploring career paths, networking and, last but not least, earning money.
[Link]Mayor Bruce Harrell and our 2024 interns all said, "One Seattle!"
Mayor Bruce Harrell (pictured above and at right with interns, supervisors, and staff) talked about the employers who provided young people with opportunities to gain real life skills-52 in all, including the Mayor's Office, Seattle Human Services, and 14 other City departments; the offices of the King County Executive and King County Prosecuting Attorney; and a variety nonprofit and private sector employers such as Kaiser Permanente, Swedish Hospital, Bloodworks Northwest, Asian Counseling and Referral Service, and the Refugee Women's Alliance.
Mayor Harrell mentioned that, over the 51 years that the SYEP has existed in the Seattle Human Services Department, thousands of youths and young adults have benefited from the program.
"Since 2019, this program has served a total of 1,149 youth through the summer internship program or school year Learn & Earn program," Mayor Harrell said. "That's an average of 191 youth served per year!" Audience members noted that those years included a worldwide pandemic, so the numbers are particularly impressive.
Mayor Harrell also noted that there were 34 percent more internship opportunities in 2024 than in 2023, and that one-quarter of SYEP interns return for a second summer internship or participate in Learn and Earn during the school year, noting that SYEP is a place to build relationships of caring and trust.
SYEP Learn & Earn programs
During the school year, a new cohort of youth and young adults participates in Learn & Earn. They will identify and build upon their professional interests, gain marketable skills, and make connections that will help them build a career. While they're at it, they'll receive stipends based on their participation.
Get involved now or in 2025
If you're wondering how to get involved now or next year, visit seattle.gov/SYEP. Applications for Learn & Earn close Friday, September 20. Young people interested in holding a 2025 summer internship can expect to see information early next year. If you are a youth or parent, feel free to e-mail [email protected].
A note to employers
SYEP interns can lend their perspectives and talents to special projects in your workplace and in the community. Fifty-two employers participated in the 2024 summer internship program and more are welcome. If you are a prospective employer partner, e-mail [email protected].
Are you a SYEP alum?
Are you among those who participated in the Seattle Youth Employment Program at some point during the past 51 years? If you held a SYEP internship at any time in the past and would be willing to inspire new applicants by participating in a video interview about your internship experience, please e-mail [email protected].