Many parents need child care when their children are on holiday break from school in February and April. During this break, the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds (CCF) Holiday Sleep-Away Programs provide a fun and educational experience for all participants. Children are encouraged to make new friends and are supported through personal growth in an enriching and safe environment.

The Holiday Sleep-Away Programs are scheduled according to the New York City public school calendar. There is a Winter Session in February and a Spring Session in April. Both are operated by Hands In 4 Youth, the home of Camp Vacamas, in West Milford, New Jersey.

This year, CCF held the Winter Session of the Holiday Sleep-Away Program (HSAP) from February 16 to February 20 for children ages 8 to 13. The Teen Holiday Sleep-Away Program (T-HSAP) was held from February 14 to February 20 for teens ages 14 to 17. A total of 79 children attended HSAP, and 47 teenagers attended T-HSAP. At the time this magazine went to press, the counts from the Spring Sessions hadn’t been tallied.

Participants in the Winter Session took part in activities ranging from team sports, robotics, games, and arts and crafts to nature exploration and big brother/big sister mentorships between T-HSAP and HSAP campers.

In a satisfaction survey of 1199SEIU members whose children participated, 91 percent said their child liked or loved their camp experience, 95 percent said the program had a positive impact on their child, and 91 percent said they are likely or extremely likely to apply again.

Recently, WorkForce (WF2) hosted two preparation and training sessions for students applying to the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), drawing more than 60 participants.

During the sessions, staff worked with students to hone skills that would prepare them for their summer jobs. Some highlights:

• Students wrapped up outstanding paperwork needed to move forward in the SYEP process.
• Staff counseled students on how to dress professionally in the workplace­—and what to avoid.
• Students practiced their skills through mock interviews with potential worksites, helping them build confidence.
• Staff reviewed the direct deposit sign-up process with students so that they would be ready when employment begins.

The 1199SEIU Child Care Corporation partners with the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) to provide this opportunity to eligible WF2 participants through SYEP. During a virtual DYCD meeting, DYCD program manager Adam Zaman commended the WF2 team, praising their strong work and thoughtful preparation.

Through SYEP, a select group of eligible WF2 participants will earn paid summer employment for six weeks, from July through August. The experience continues with Saturday academic classes running from September through June—helping students stay supported, engaged and on track for success.