I would invite those who question the value of youth job initiatives (“New Report Shows How Job Programs Have Failed Youth,” June 18) to speak to any of the more than 35,000 young people who will work this summer at diverse worksites offering something for everyone as part of New York City’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). In addition to day camps, more than two-thirds of employers represent other sectors, including government, community service, health care, retail, hospitality and financial services. Youth will gain not only valuable work and life skills, but confidence, self-esteem and that all-important reference—someone to vouch for them.
