08/08/2026
This summer, 40 Wayne County students traded their summer break for something a little different: real jobs in local government.
More than 100 students applied for a spot in this year's Summer Youth Employment Program, the highest number we've ever seen. The 40 who were selected spent six weeks working in departments across the County, from EMS and the Sheriff's Office to the Library, the Animal Shelter, the Wayne Executive Jetport, and more.
They didn't just shadow employees, they worked alongside them.
"I knew I would gain work experience and learn about the local government, but I did not realize how much I would learn about the people who keep our community running. One of the biggest lessons I have learned this summer is that nothing great happens because of just one person," said Sarah, a program participant.
Now in its fifth year, this program keeps growing. It gives young people a real look at what public service is, and it gives Wayne County a chance to invest in the people who might run this place someday.
Congratulations to all 40 students on a summer well spent!
