‘Roc Your Job’ Receives $3.9 Million to Support Year-Long Employment for At-Risk Youth

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced on Monday, October 21, the expansion of the Roc Your Job initiative, thanks to a $3.9 million investment from New York State’s Youth Employment Program. The program, now extending into the 2024-2025 school year, provides year-long, after-school employment for local at-risk youth.

Partnering with RochesterWorks and the Monroe County Department of Human Services, Roc Your Job connects teens from underserved neighborhoods to jobs that help reduce poverty and crime.

“Every job builds skills and confidence, creating a brighter future for our youth,” Bello said. “By expanding Roc Your Job, we’re investing in future leaders and giving them the tools to succeed.”

Launched in January 2024, the program initially aimed to place 260 students in jobs but exceeded expectations by employing 311. With the new funding, it will support over 340 teens from low-income households, particularly in communities impacted by crime.

Dave Seeley, Executive Director of RochesterWorks, praised the initiative for benefiting both youth and local businesses. "It’s a win-win for today’s economy and tomorrow’s workforce," Seeley said.

The program is open to youth aged 14-20 from households earning 200% or less of the federal poverty level. Forty employers, including retailers, non-profits, and government agencies, are participating.

Assemblymember Demond Meeks and other local leaders highlighted the program’s role in preparing youth for the workforce, reducing crime, and strengthening communities.

“I am proud to see a significant investment being made towards preparing our youth with the skills and tools necessary to excel in the workforce. Programs such as the ROC Your Job initiative are essential to connecting our children and students to meaningful opportunities that will allow them to gain job experience, establish a strong work ethic, and prepare each of them for success,” said Meeks. “Providing these kinds of resources and support to our future generations is one of the main methods by which we build stronger neighborhoods and uplift struggling families.”

“One of the root causes of mental health distress for our young people is a lack of employment options. Allocating state funding toward Roc Your Job, a program that has a successful track record of employing young people, will help secure their futures and equip them with the training they need to thrive,” said Senator Samra G. Brouk (SD-55).

RochesterWorks is currently looking for more employer partners for the Roc Your Job initiative. Employers and students are encouraged to learn more and sign up at rocyourjob.com.