Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently made a stop in the Bronx to surprise young New Yorkers participating in the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) at the CITYarts Bronx Mural Project, highlighting the importance of keeping youth engaged through meaningful summer opportunities. During the visit, the mayor also encouraged families to take advantage of Summer in N.Y.C., the city’s free online resource that helps parents and caregivers discover free and low-cost activities for children and teens throughout the five boroughs.
The Summer in NYC website makes it easy for families to search for programs based on:
- Age
- ZIP code
- Interests
- Travel distance
Whether your child enjoys art, sports, music, technology, or outdoor recreation, the interactive map helps families discover nearby opportunities all summer long. The site also includes locations for free summer meals, making it a valuable resource for families looking to stay active while school is out.
New Sports & Technology Challenge for SYEP Participants
They Mayor also shared information about the new New York City Sports and Technology Innovation Challenge, created for young people participating in the Summer Youth Employment Program. Inspired by the excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the challenge invites teams of students to develop creative ideas that combine sports, technology, and community improvement.
Projects include concepts such as:
- Designing the smart stadium of the future with sustainable transportation for fans.
- Creating a digital platform that connects young people with sports opportunities across New York City.
- Imagining inclusive, climate-resilient community recreation spaces that make athletics more accessible for everyone.
The initiative introduces participants to careers where sports, innovation, engineering, and technology intersect while encouraging them to solve real-world challenges.
Don’t forget to use the Summer in NYC website to help plan the rest of the summer.