Starting on May 13 and continuing through May 23, Suffolk County is holding their first-ever Youth Week.
Announced on May 6 by Suffolk County Legislator Jason Richberg, Suffolk County Legislator Rob Calarco and Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, the Youth Week is aimed to mentor, honor and celebrate the youth of Suffolk County.
Legislation from May 19, 2020, sponsored by Legislator Richberg and approved by the county legislature, designates the third week in May as “Youth Week” beginning in 2021.
The first annual Suffolk County Youth Week began on May 13 with a virtual job training and on May 17, there will be a virtual job fair. The fair intends to improve young people’s workforce readiness and assist those looking for summer employment.
“I think that the youth week is going to bring great opportunities to teens,” said 16-year-old Liv Polani of Melville. “It is amazing that they are helping us find summer jobs that will help build up our resumes and gain experience.”
Kicking off the Youth Week on May 13, they hosted a virtual job training workshop to help prepare resumes and assist with interview tips.
Later in the week, on Wed, May 19, they will host the Inaugural Suffolk County Youth Awards. The virtual ceremony will recognize youth who have made significant contributions to their communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Every day, whether it is through community service, recreational sports, various forms of art or school clubs, our young people contribute to the vibrancy of our communities in innumerable ways,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone in a press release. “Youth Week is designed to not only provide our youth with the tools they need to continue to succeed, but recognize and honor each and every one of them for their outstanding achievements, character and leadership.”
The objective of Youth Week is to recognize Suffolk County youth, ages nine through 12, as well as teenagers and celebrate their activities within their communities.
FULL YOUTH WEEK SCHEDULE AND DETAILS
Mon., May 17, 5 p.m. : Job Fair
This virtual job fair will prepare Suffolk County youth for summer job employment opportunities and more. Employers will be present virtually to handle applications and interviews.
Wed., May 19: Inaugural Suffolk County Youth Awards
The awards will recognize young people from across the county who have gone above and beyond in helping their community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Suffolk County youth who performed extraordinary community service during the pandemic will be honored in a virtual award presentation. Community service could include COVID-19 relief efforts such as distribution of food, toiletries, face-coverings etc.
Sat., May 22: Day of Service
Young people and youth groups may sign up to tie a ribbon on the Suffolk County COVID-19 Memorial in honor of those who lost their fight to this disease. The event will be held at the William H. Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge.
For more information regarding Suffolk County Youth Week visit: www.scnylegislature.us/YouthWeek
