Corey Branch - Mayor Pro Tem & District C City Council Member
"The Raleigh Summer Youth Employment Program was my first job and was vital in me learning the importance of being responsible and treating every person with respect."
Chris Burwell Sr. - Director, Biltmore Hills Community Center
"RSYEP provided a great work foundation during the most formative years of my life. This program set the tone for what would eventually become an enjoyable career in Parks & Recreation. It provided opportunities that a 14-year-old would otherwise not have. I couldn't have asked for a better first job! I learned everything from interview skills and filling out timesheets, to programming for Youth Summer Camps. Those lessons helped me become the professional that I am today! I rose from a RYSEP Junior Counselor at Biltmore Hills Community Center in 2005, to the Director of Biltmore Hills Community Center 23 years later. It's truly a full-circle moment."
Bryce Dunn - Deputy City Clerk, Clerk's Office
"The RSYEP ended up becoming a very pivotal time in my life where I created relationships that I still value to this day. The City of Raleigh is the only job I’ve ever had, and it’s amazing to look back and realize that 15 years have gone by since that time. As a native of Raleigh, I’m proud to know that the RSYEP has helped to improve skills for so many youth."
Carmen Myles - Teen Program Manager, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources
"The Raleigh Summer Youth Employment Program exposed me to my passion, career of working with youth, mentors, and valuable lifelong friendships. The RSYEP program is a big part of who I am today and I am forever grateful for the experience at such a young age."
Joshlyne Privette - Permitting Advocate, Planning and Development
"My experience with the RSYEP was remarkable as I gained valuable work skills. An aspect of the program that I hold true, is that it instilled a strong work ethic for me, even at a young age that I’ll always cherish forever"