Program Timeframe: Monday, June 22, 2026- Friday, July 31, 2026

Application Timeframe: Open from Monday, December 15 to Saturday, January 31, 2026.

To be part of the program, you must:

1. Be 14 to 21 years old
2. Be in middle or high school
3. Live in the City of Alexandria
4. Be allowed to work in the U.S.
5. Your family gets one of these benefits (or by qualifying based on household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty line):
   • SNAP (food stamps)
   • Medicaid
   • TANF
   • Free or reduced-price school lunch based on eligibility for benefits (CES Lunch Letter is not applicable) 

Have an IEP at school?
You're still eligible, even if you don’t receive any of the benefits above. However, you’re still required to meet the other eligibility requirements (age, school status, live in the City Of Alexandria, and be allowed to work in the U.S.)

To participate in the program, you’ll need to provide documents that confirm your eligibility. We currently accept the following:

• Proof you live in the City of Alexandria
  (Examples: school ID, Virginia ID, or a report card with your full name and address)
• Proof you can work in the United States
  (Examples: Social Security card, birth certificate, or other official documentation)
• Proof of income qualifying based on household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty line 
  (Examples: Free or reduced-price school lunch based on eligibility for benefits (CES Lunch Letter is not applicable), Medicaid Award Letter, Federal Tax Return, W-2, or paystubs)
• A government-issued photo ID
  (Examples: driver’s license, learner’s permit, school ID, or Virginia ID card)
• If you’re using an IEP (Individualized Education Program) for eligibility,
  A copy of the IEP will also be required.

Best Combinations to Minimize Documents

If you receive SNAP/Medicaid/TANF/F&R Lunch:

Submit:

1. School ID or Report Card (Covers school + address + possibly photo)

2. Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Green Card, or Work Authorization Card (Covers work eligibility)

3. Benefit Letter (Covers income requirement)

4. (Optional if School ID doesn’t have photo) A photo ID

= As few as 3 documents

If you don’t get benefits but have an IEP:

Submit:

1. School ID or Report Card (Covers school + address + possibly photo)

2. Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Green Card, or Work Authorization Card (Covers work eligibility)

3. IEP Document (Covers eligibility alternative)

4. (Optional if School ID doesn’t have photo) A photo ID

= As few as 3 documents

Quick Tips:

• If your school documents don’t have your address, submit a Virginia ID or official mail with your name and Alexandria address.

• Make sure your documents are clear, current, and match your name.

• Complete and submit all required forms and documents by the application deadline.
• Commit to the full six-week program, including orientation, workshops, work experience, and the closing ceremony. If you have planned vacation or summer school, this would potentially interfere with the program activities.
• Adhere to all program policies and guidelines as outlined in the SYEP Participant Handbook.

Due to the six-week timeframe, your dedication to these commitments will help you maximize this valuable opportunity and set you up for future success.

Before you apply, be sure to review the following tabs: 

• Who Can Apply
• What Documents Are Needed
• Ready to Apply? Here’s What It Takes

Important: Submit Your Application Once. Completely and Accurately!

To make sure your application is processed smoothly:

1. Submit your application only once
2. Include all required documents with your application
3. Make sure every document is complete and accurate

Spaces are limited, so the earlier you apply with all the necessary paperwork, the better your chances of being enrolled. Incomplete or multiple submissions can cause delays or affect your eligibility. Take a moment to review everything before you submit!

Fill out the Smartsheet Youth Application! 

Any questions, please reach out to DCHSSummerYouth@alexandriava.gov.

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

• 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