Supporting New York’s Youth in Gaining Professional Experience
by Urban Upbound’s staff members
This summer, Urban Upbound takes part in the largest youth employment program in the nation, the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). Organized by NYC’s Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), this program helps level the playing field for many young New Yorkers who otherwise can’t afford an internship. The youth who participate in this program are connected with opportunities to explore different career paths while gaining meaningful paid work experience. Urban Upbound offered several internship opportunities and currently has three interns working in different departments.
With no plans this summer and unemployed, Shakera Rahman applied to the program back in April in hopes of attaining some hands-on experience. After a couple of virtual meetings and interviews to explore her skills and interest, Shakera joined Urban Upbound as a communication intern! She was even more excited when she found out that we were able to facilitate a remote position. A fast learner, Shakera enjoys putting her creativity to the test by creating social media captions and designing image posts while acquiring knowledge in communication research and reporting.
Irene Hernandez is an admin intern at our Astoria location. Working at Urban Upbound is Irene’s first-ever job experience. Although she started off as shy, Irene was thriving when we asked her to work at our reception desk to welcome incoming clients. “Working with Urban Upbound has been great. The staff is very friendly, open-minded, helpful, and very respectful. They really do care to help people who come here,” shared Irene. Despite the new and unfamiliar setting, Irene instantly grew comfortable with working alongside us!
Our third intern, David Martinez, works in the development department helping us with data entry and program evaluation. David had the opportunity to learn how to administer our data management platform. David has worked hard to make sure that he completes his assignments with satisfactory results. He is grateful that his internship allows him to gain the skills that will help with his future career. David fully supports Urban Upbound’s mission and is happy to be helping out especially during the time where many New Yorkers need the support.
Your donations help our youth improve their skills, expand their career, and achieve their dreams, one big step at a time. If you’d like to learn more about our impact and work in the community, please follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube) or subscribe to our newsletter.
