Expanded Youth Employment Opportunities to Reduce Gun Violence

The New York State Summer Youth Employment Program introduces youth to the workforce and helps them acquire skills that can be used to improve school performance and future career outcomes. Participation in summer jobs has proven to reduce the likelihood of involvement in violence. Additional funds are now available from New York State to provide additional job opportunities for youth residing in 21 communities facing high rates of gun violence.

Eligible participants for this targeted anti-violence initiative may include individuals who are between 14 and 24 years old and who reside in households with income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

A constructive workforce experience can provide lower-income youth with needed income and also help them gain additional skills to improve the transition to work or college. Interaction with working adults can also help youth recognize the importance of educational achievement and expand their education and career goals.