ROC Youth Employment Network opens applications for teens and young adults to gain paid summer work experience and career skills

Rochester, New York – Rochester and Monroe County are inviting local youth to apply for summer work opportunities through the newly launched ROC Youth Employment Network. The program, which is now accepting applications through Friday, April 17, provides paid internships and work experience for young people ages 14 to 20.

The ROC Youth Employment Network represents a new, unified approach to summer youth employment in the region. It combines the City of Rochester’s Summer of Opportunity Program (SOOP) and Monroe County’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) into a single, streamlined application process. The initiative is administered in partnership with RochesterWorks, aiming to provide meaningful career-building experiences for young people in the community.

The program is open to students who are currently enrolled in middle school or high school, as well as those pursuing a high school equivalency diploma. Participants must be at least 14 years old at the time of application. Internships typically last six to eight weeks and are designed to equip youth with practical skills that prepare them for future careers, while also fostering academic growth. Previous participants have worked with local businesses, colleges, community organizations, and even city departments, giving them firsthand experience in a range of professional environments.

“Rochester’s young people should have every opportunity to stay active and engaged over the summer months—and what better way than building career skills while earning money,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “The City’s Summer of Opportunity Program has long been that stepping stone for students preparing for a prosperous future. I’m pleased that our ongoing partnership with Monroe County will continue to thrive under the new name, ROC Youth Employment Network.”

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello emphasized the broader community benefits of such programs. “Summer jobs are investments in our young people and in our community. They provide paychecks, practical experience, new skills, and meaningful mentorship that open doors to future careers,” Bello said. “I’m grateful to Mayor Evans and RochesterWorks for partnering with us to launch the ROC Youth Employment Network and simplify the application process. By working together, we’re giving the next generation the head start they need to build bright, successful futures.”

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RochesterWorks Executive Director Dave Seeley highlighted the success of previous efforts and the program’s growing impact. “RochesterWorks is proud of our long-standing relationship with the City of Rochester and Monroe County as administrators of the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), now under the umbrella of the ROC Youth Employment Network,” he said. “Last summer alone, working together, we were able to provide well-paying jobs and work experience for 785 local youth. This summer, we anticipate the number of youth that we’ll be able to serve through the ROC Youth Employment Network will rise. We are looking forward to this being a great summer for all involved.”

Applying to the program requires submitting several documents digitally before the April 17 deadline. Applicants must provide a work permit, social security card, the most recent school report card, and an official photo I.D., which can include a school ID, driver’s license, non-driver ID, or Safe Child ID.

For youth who may need help uploading these documents, the program will host five in-person support events. These events provide guidance for applicants to ensure their materials are submitted correctly and on time. The schedule includes:

• Tuesday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., RochesterWorks Career Center, 96 College Ave, Suite 120
• Thursday, Feb. 19, 2 to 6 p.m., Loretta C. Scott Center for Human Services, 57 St. Paul St.
• Tuesday, March 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., RochesterWorks Career Center, 96 College Ave, Suite 120
• Thursday, April 2, 2 to 6 p.m., Loretta C. Scott Center for Human Services, 57 St. Paul St.
• Tuesday, April 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., RochesterWorks Career Center, 96 College Ave, Suite 120

Once applications are submitted, participants will have the opportunity to interview for paid summer work placements. While the program provides valuable experience, competition is strong, and placements are not guaranteed.

The ROC Youth Employment Network is designed not only to offer income but also to give youth practical skills and mentorship that will help them succeed academically and professionally. This effort reflects a broader commitment from both city and county leaders to invest in the region’s next generation and equip them for long-term success.

For more information or to submit an application, interested youth can visit www.ROCYouthEmployment.com or contact the ROC Youth Employment Hotline at 585-428-6366.

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With the launch of this unified program, the City of Rochester and Monroe County aim to make summer a productive and engaging time for youth, blending career development with community involvement. For teenagers and young adults looking to gain work experience, earn money, and explore future career paths, the ROC Youth Employment Network represents an important and accessible opportunity.

As summer approaches, the program is expected to bring together hundreds of young people with local employers, helping students build the skills, confidence, and connections they will need to thrive in both school and future careers. With applications now open, the clock is ticking for youth to take the first step toward a summer filled with learning, growth, and opportunity.