Orange County Government
Office of County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus
NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release Contact: Rebecca Sheehan
March 6, 2026 Phone: 845-907-2332

Orange County Executive Neuhaus Announces Return of Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus announced the return of the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), an initiative that has provided meaningful work opportunities for local youth for more than 30 years.

Funded through the Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) grant, SYEP primarily serves youth from low-income families, helping provide pathways to greater stability and opportunity. The program connects youth ages 14 to 20 with employers across Orange County, offering hands-on work experiences that build job readiness, confidence, and essential skills. Last year, participants worked with local businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities, including the City of Newburgh Aquatic Center, Foeller’s Men’s Shop, Legoland New York, New Wonders Learning Center, High-Class Motorsports, Hudson Valley Christian Church, and the Salvation Army in the City of Port Jervis.

“SYEP gives youth in Orange County a terrific opportunity to gain work experience, build confidence, and develop skills that will benefit them for years to come,” said Neuhaus. “Programs like this are an investment in the future of our youth and the long-term strength of our community.”

The program helps to keep youth engaged, supports workforce development, and fosters personal growth while strengthening the broader community. Participants gain experience in responsibility, teamwork, and communications, all skills that are essential for any career.

“The Summer Youth Employment Program is one of the most impactful initiatives our department leads,” said Steve Knob, Director of the Orange County Employment and Training Administration. “By connecting youth with meaningful work experiences, we help them build skills, confidence, and career pathways that will benefit them for years to come.”

The program also enjoys strong support from local employers.

“When we first partnered with SYEP, we didn’t know what to expect, but the experience exceeded our expectations,” said Doria Paci, owner of Betty’s Snack Bar in Newburgh. “Our participant was reliable, motivated, and great with customers; he quickly became part of our Betty’s family.”

This partnership between youth and local employer’s highlights SYEP’s broader impact.

“The Orange County Summer Youth Employment Program is a valuable investment in our community,” added Heather Bell, President and CEO of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and Vice Chair of the Workforce Development Board. “By connecting young people with meaningful work experiences, we’re building skills and confidence today while strengthening our future workforce.”

The program continues to see strong interest. Last summer, more than 500 youth applied and over 400 were placed at worksites across the County.

“SYEP is about much more than summer jobs,” said Karina Fabiano, Youth Coordinator with the Orange County Employment and Training Administration. “It gives young people the chance to gain workplace experience, build confidence, and develop relationships with mentors and employers who prepare them for the future.”

Participants consistently praise the program for its real world impact.

“My experience working at the Boys and Girls Club summer camp through SYEP was an amazing introduction to being a camp counselor,” said 2025 participant Jahaad Thomas-Guillen. “I built meaningful connections with the kids and staff, gained confidence, and enjoyed helping the kids learn and have fun. It was an unforgettable experience.”

Another participant, Alyssa Miller, shared a similar perspective, stating “Participating in SYEP helped me build confidence, improve my communication skills, and gain real-world experience in a professional environment. I learned the importance of responsibility, time management, and teamwork, and I’m grateful to have been part of a program that invests in young people.”

For more information about the Summer Youth Employment Program and how to apply, visit: https://www.orangecountygov.com/1449/Summer-Youth-Employment-Program-2026

Application for youth – deadline April 10:
https://www.orangecountygov.com/DocumentCenter/View/31491/Complete-YOUTH-SYEP-2026-Application--PDF

Worksite application – deadline April 30:
https://www.orangecountygov.com/DocumentCenter/View/32974/Complete-2026-Summer-Youth-Worksite-Application-PDF

For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or presscontact@orangecountygov.com.

Stay connected with County Executive Neuhaus and Orange County Government on social media:

• Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
• Instagram: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
• X (formerly Twitter): @OCGovNY | @SNeuhausOC

Be sure to also check out the Blueprint Orange video series, a behind-the-scenes look at the projects, places, and people that make our County a great place to live. And don’t miss the newest episode of NeuCast, featuring the West Point Museum, now streaming on the County Executive’s Page at OrangeCountyGov.com

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City of Newburgh DMV.

R.E.A.C.T – a non for profit in Newburgh.

Foeller Men’s Shop in Middletown.

Rebecca Sheehan

Assistant to County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus

Director of Public Information & Media Relations

Orange County Government Center

255-275 Main Street, 3^rd Floor

Goshen, New York 10924

Main: 845-291-2700

Direct: 845-291-3255

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