Description

The CUNY Young Adult Program (CYAP) is a partnership of three CUNY colleges - LaGuardia Community College (lead organization), Kingsborough Community College (KCC), and New York City College of Technology (City Tech). Each college offers a customized skills training program that has proven successful in training and placing participants in employment. CYAP serves participants between the ages of 18-24 who are not currently employed or enrolled in school, have their high school diplomas or GEDs, and demonstrate financial need.

Kingsborough Community College provides Food Service Operations training and Hospitality Operations and Management training that emphasizes hands-on skills and industry certifications. For more information please click here

LaGuardia Community College provides Business and Financial Services training which includes training in bank teller, bookkeeping, retail skills/customer services and basic computer operations (Microsoft Office Suite).

New York City College of Technology provides Generic Construction-related and Facilities Management training in order to place participants in paid union apprenticeship positions as well as employment.

CYAP includes an intensive assessment component; life management skills classes that include job readiness (employer expectations, dressing appropriately, resume writing, interviewing skills); financial literacy, time management; basic civics and stress management. With the assistance of the Employment Specialist, participants will enter employment in the Food Service or Hospitality field upon the successful completion of training.

Participants complete an extensive assessment process that includes TABE (Test for Adult Basic Education) tests, interest inventories, written applications and individual interviews. Participants must have a high school diploma or GED.

Prior to beginning customized skills training, participants complete "Bridge Training" to introduce them to contextualized classes in math, writing and critical thinking skills and computer literacy. These classes enhance the participants' academic preparation and to introduce them to computations, writing and computer programs that are needed in the particular field of training.

Job Development

The job developer/employment specialist develops an individual employability plan with each participant. The job developer/employment specialist meets with each participant on an individual basis and conducts job readiness workshops (employer expectations, resume writing, interviewing skills, proper dress, etc.) that help participants transition into the world of work. The job developer/employment specialist also works with the case manager to identify and remove any barriers to successful completion and placement.

Case Management

Participants receive case management services to help them with any crisis and to remove any barriers to successful program completion. Benefits screening through ACCESS NYC will be utilized when needed. Case managers will also be available to meet with participants during the evening hours if there is a personal or family crisis, and for information and referral services.

Metrocards: Each enrolled participant receives a bi-weekly, unlimited Metrocard to ensure that s/he will be able to attend classes.

Employment Tracking and Follow Up Services
Participants will remain in contact with the Employment Specialist after job placement through phone contact, e-mail and, if needed, a visit to their place of employment. Employed participants are encouraged to apply to college as matriculated students and will be advised about all the services and entitlements (Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Health Plus, etc.) for which they are eligible. Participants will remain in contact with the Case Manager as needed.