Youth Empowerment Starts Right Here

About the Program

The Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program (MSYEP) provides meaningful work experience for young people during the summer months. Through partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and city agencies, participants gain valuable skills, earn income, and explore career pathways in a supportive environment.

Program Goals

MSYEP empowers youth with hands-on job experience while fostering professional development and workplace readiness. The program promotes civic engagement and community involvement, and supports economic equity by connecting youth to paid opportunities.

General Eligibility

To participate in MSYEP, you must be between the ages of 16 and 24 and reside within the Orleans Parish city limits. Additional criteria may apply based on the application requirements, such as income or school enrollment status.


Program Tracks

Traditional Track (6 weeks)

Participants earn $15.00/hr and work in a supportive environment to learn job responsibilities. Open to youth ages 16–24.

Intern NOLA (8 weeks)

This track is designed for college students ages 18–24 who have completed 30+ credit hours. Interns earn $16.27/hr and are placed in internships aligned with their academic majors. Applicants must pass a drug test, submit a resume, and complete an interview.

Work & Learn

Geared toward youth ages 16–18, this track pays $15.00/hr and provides pre-college support through UNO and SUNO Upward Bound programs.

Application Requirements

Bring original copies of the following documents to your MSYEP appointment:

  • Birth Certificate or Birth Card
  • Current ID (School ID, LA State ID, or Driver’s License)
  • Social Security Card
  • Most Recent Report Card or Progress Report
  • Proof of Address (Lease, Utility Bill, or Voter Registration Card)
  • Proof of Guardianship (if applicable)
  • Parent/Guardian ID (if under 18)
  • Selective Service Enrollment (males ONLY ages 18–24)
  • Intern NOLA only: Resume and Proof of Income (last 30 days)

After submitting your application, you must schedule an in-person registration appointment to continue the process.

Key Dates for MSYEP 2026

  • Early Registration begins January 12 – 23, 2026
  • Break for Mardi Gras Season January 26 – February 20, 2026
  • Registration Resumes February 23 – April 24, 2026

MSYEP Program Dates

  • Traditional Participants (6 weeks) June 1 – July 10, 2026
  • Intern Participants (8 weeks) June 1 – July 24, 2026

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