Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) - Business and Employer Partner Information

The Summer Youth Employment program aims to build a stronger Alexandria, one young leader at a time.
Page updated on December 18, 2025 at 12:46 PM
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PARTNER WITH US, BECOME A SYEP WORKSITE

Invest in Local Youth Talent & Support Your Business

The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) offers your business a chance to take on motivated local youth for a six-week summer internship. Receive eager, ready-to-learn interns while helping build the next generation of talent in Alexandria.

 

Why Partner with SYEP

  • Access to pre-screened, motivated youth aged 14–21 from Alexandria.
  • Gain support from a dedicated Youth Advisor — we help you manage onboarding, mentorship, and oversight.
  • Increase business capacity and complete short-term projects during summer months.
  • Help your organization build a reputation for community engagement and invest in future workforce development.

 

Our motivated and enthusiastic participants come ready to contribute, learn, and make a positive impact at your worksite. Together, we can empower today’s youth and invest in the future success of Alexandria by cultivating the next generation of talented professionals.

Ready to make a difference? Partner with SYEP today and help shape tomorrow’s workforce.

Employer Application - Apply now!

 

#info-DCHSSummerYouth@alexandriava.gov.

“…when you’re a small business owner, you wear a lot of different hats. So many different things to contemplate on a day-to-day basis, and you can’t possibly be in all places at the same time. It’s also really difficult to trust someone with their business, right? I didn’t even have to question it. These students came in, and one ran my social media presence… all these different things that I paid marketers to do, thousands of dollars, thousands of dollars where I could not afford it, my business could not afford it.…when you hone in on someone’s strengths and really allow them to be creative, especially when they are in high school. They are so eager to learn and willing to test the waters, I mean, the possibilities are endless. Again, this program has changed my life and saved my business, and I am so thankful."

- Dr. Betel Aklilu, Chiropractic and Wellness Center

Summer Youth Employment Program Closing Ceremony 2023

 

Worksite Benefits

Benefits for your business include:

  • No Direct Labor Costs
    Youth wages are paid directly by the City of Alexandria.
  • Support for Your Team
    Gain fresh perspectives and extra help without the expense of hiring seasonal employees.
  • Increased Community Engagement
    Hosting youth offers a powerful way to connect with the community and show your commitment to social responsibility.
  • Support in building a diverse and skilled future talent pipeline

Worksite Roles

  • Mentor youth through meaningful work experiences
  • Supervise and guide participants daily
  • Communicate promptly with the Youth Advisor about any concerns
  • Support youth recognition by participating in award nominations and events
  • Evaluate participant performance and provide references
  • Create a positive, inclusive workplace for youth growth

Jump to the Main SYEP Page