SYEP 2025

Program Description

The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is a six-week program that provides youth and young adults with job placement or specialized training opportunities. Job placements include retail stores, day camps, government offices, local businesses, and corporate placements. Specialized training opportunities include Everyone Can Code, Everyone Can Create, and Economic Awareness Council Peer Money Mentors.

Our Goals

• Participants complete workforce preparation and financial literacy training
• Participants increase their work readiness skills
• After the program, participants will transition to long-term employment, an apprenticeship, post-secondary programs, or the military
• Participants report a positive relationship with an adult from their program

Who does the program serve?

SYEP is open to all young Chicagoans ages 16-24. At least 50 percent of participants identify with one of the following populations:

• Individuals with disabilities
• Individuals attending elementary and high schools that need targeted or intensive support
• Individuals who are English Language learners
• Individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are unstably housed
• Individuals placed in the foster care system
• Individuals who are justice-involved (e.g., parole, probation)
• Individuals ages 16-24 who are out of school and not working