LIGHT Year Youth Employment Program (YEP)

In partnership with Albany County and supported by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), the City of Albany launched the 2025-2026 LIGHT Year Employment Program. This program provides TANF-eligible youth from marginalized communities with paid job opportunities during the school year.

UPDATE:: Pre-interest surveys for the LIGHT Year Youth Employment Program 2025-2026  is now closed. We encouraged interested youth who previously completed the pre-interest survey to check their emails for the upcoming Spring registration information. Please note, youth that worked during the Fall 2025 LIGHT Year Youth Employment Program re not eligible to work in the Spring program.  The Spring 2026 cohort runs from April 6 – May 29, 2026. 


Program Goals:

  1. Career Exploration: Gain valuable work experience through internships and job placements with local businesses and organizations.
  2. Mentorship: Receive career mentorship and professional guidance from industry professionals.
  3. Skills Development: Build essential workplace skills, including resume writing, interview techniques, and workplace etiquette.
  4. Networking: Connect with peers and professionals to help lay the foundation for future career opportunities.

Program Details:

  • Fall Program Duration: October 20 - December 12, 2025 (FULL)
  • Spring Program Duration: April 6 - May 29, 2026
  • Worksites: Various locations throughout the City of Albany

Eligibility:

  • Be a City of Albany resident
  • Age 14-20
  • Be from a household with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
    • Example: For a family of three, the income threshold is $53,300
  • TANF eligibility required

How to Apply:

  1. Complete the Interest Survey HERE.
  2. The interest survey will remain open until all Spring slots are filled.
  3. After you submit the survey, our team will contact you with details about required documentation drop-off.
  4. Placement is first-come, first-served and based on worksite availability

Reminder: Spots are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Contact Information:

Email: SYEP@albanyny.gov

Phone: 518-438-1082