ATL Standard

Mayor Andre Dickens of Atlanta has secured a $2 million allocation for the 2024 Summer Youth Employment Program. The initiative, sponsored by Councilmember Andrea L. Boone, aims to provide paid positions for Atlanta youth across various industries and roles within the city.

In a statement, Mayor Dickens highlighted the importance of the program, stating, "The Summer Youth Employment Program helps our young people come into their own by creating paid opportunities that provide work experience and life skills that can help prepare them for the future." He also expressed gratitude towards Councilmember Boone and the City Council, emphasizing the collective effort to support Atlanta's youth.

Established in 2022 under Mayor Dickens' leadership, the Summer Youth Employment Program collaborates with public, private, and non-profit entities to offer valuable work experiences to Atlanta's young population. The program not only provides employment opportunities but also focuses on imparting essential work and life skills.

Mayor Dickens urged private and non-profit partners to join hands in hiring Atlanta youth, aiming to make the 2024 program the most successful yet. He stated, "The SYEP continues to be a group project, and I again call on our private and non-profit partners to hire as many Atlanta youth as possible to make this the best year yet."

In the previous year, the 2023 SYEP saw 5,418 youth enrolled in the program, with 157 employers participating. The average hourly wage for the participants was $17.27, indicating a commitment to providing competitive compensation for young workers.

For those interested in participating in the 2024 Summer Youth Employment Program or becoming a hiring partner, more information can be found on the atlyearoftheyouth.com website.

This allocation of $2 million towards the Summer Youth Employment Program underscores Mayor Dickens' commitment to empowering Atlanta's youth and providing them with valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.