City Launches Community Service Program for Probation Clients

Top city officials launched a seven-week program Monday to connect 450 young probation clients to paid summer jobs at Hurricane Sandy restoration projects.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs and Department of Probation Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi formed YouthWRAP (Weekend Restoration Assistance Program) in January. The first phase of the program engaged 200 young people in 13,587 hours of service.

“Two of the most effective ways we can help young people in the justice system lead law-abiding lives are by connecting them to good jobs and providing opportunities for them to give back to their community,” Mayor Bloomberg said outside the Barclays Center on Monday. “NYC Summer YouthWRAP achieves both of these objectives. And it’s not only the participants and their families who benefit – YouthWRAP has a proven track record of providing meaningful assistance to New Yorkers impacted by Hurricane Sandy.”

It is estimated that the seven-week summer program will enable 70,875 hours of service, according to a city press release. Participants can work up to 168 hours and earn $1,440 in stipends.

“When I showed up for my first YouthWRAP orientation back in January, I never would have imagined that six months later I’d be here telling you how important this program has been for me,” participant Aquarius Petteway said. “I’ve seen first-hand how much some people suffered because of the storm and it feels good helping them out. YouthWRAP is one of the best jobs I’ve ever had and I think the summer is going to be even better.”