Four participants with arms around each other's shoulders smile at the camera. Each participant is wearing a "Raleigh Youth Employment Program" t-shirt.

All in the Family: Raleigh Summer Youth Employment Program

“It gave me confidence. It really did.”

Elesha and Tiffany Dye

Elesha Dye can’t say enough good things about the Raleigh Summer Youth Employment Program. That’s pretty impressive considering she took part in the program more than 25 years ago!

The Raleigh mom and healthcare worker believes the program sets up teenagers for success in the work world. That’s why she encouraged her 15-year-old daughter, Tiffany, to apply for the program.

Tiffany just wrapped up the 8-week summer session.

“It shaped me in a lot of ways. I got to do stuff I’d never done before. I met professionals who give advice which was helpful,” Tiffany said. “I really enjoyed it.”

More Than Just a Job

Program Manager Rebekah Dixon points out participants not only get on-the-job experience, they also attend financial education seminars and mental health seminars.

The teens go through a Professional Development Day where they get headshots and work on their resumes. 

“This is more than just a summer job,” Dixon tells us. “We are creating opportunities for these teenagers and helping to build a strong foundation for them so they can succeed in the future."

The Summer Youth Employment Program started in 1983 and has grown over the years, with 175 teenagers participating this year.

Contact

 

Rebekah A. Dixon, M.Ed
Youth Employment Program Manager
rebekah.dixon@raleighnc.gov
919-996-5722

Lead Department:
Community Engagement

Subscribe