GOVERNOR CUOMO LAUNCHES SUMMER JOBS EXPRESS TO ENCOURAGE BUSINESSES TO HIRE 16,500 YOUTHS

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the Summer Jobs Express program to encourage business leaders to hire 16,500 youths between the ages of 14 and 21 for summer employment in high-need areas of the state.

Summer Jobs Express will provide $21 million in funding to qualifying local organizations and businesses that hire youth for five weeks or more from June 13 through September 30, 2011. Funds will also be used to provide work readiness training, supportive services and wages.

"A good summer job puts money in a teen's pocket, provides invaluable life experience and helps neighborhoods grow stronger," Governor Cuomo said. "Businesses that employ young people create a talented workforce that resonates for decades to come. Our Summer Jobs Express program furthers our mission of job creation by giving businesses the resources to hire, train and foster growth in youths from underprivileged communities, creating a sense of pride for both workers and employers."

The NYS Department of Labor will connect companies with young workers this summer through its statewide network of One-Stop Career Centers. Businesses wishing to participate in Summer Jobs Express should contact the NYS Department of Labor at 877-226-5724.

Last year, the average unemployment rate in New York State among 16-24 year-olds was 16.5 percent – even more so for minorities in that age group (30.4 percent for African Americans, 27.2 percent for Hispanics).

Statistics show that for every year a teenager works, the income earned in their twenties rises between 14 to 16 percent. Teen summer employment also leads to higher high school graduation rates. Additionally, companies that hire younger workers during the summer benefit by building a reliable pool of future full-time employees.

Summer Jobs Express is supported by $5.5 million from the U.S. Department of Labor and another $15.5 million from the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (as allocated in the 2011-2012 state budget).

For more information, visit www.laborny.jobs.