In May 2022, Mayor Dickens launched the Summer Youth Employment Program with “Signing Day.” In his first State of the City address, Mayor Dickens challenged Atlanta’s public, private, philanthropic and nonprofit communities to employ Atlanta’s youth. That summer, the program received more than 3,500 applicants, 99% of whom met all eligibility requirements and the hiring business’ criteria. More than 3,000 young people were placed in paid employment and internship opportunities throughout nearly 100 worksites across Atlanta. This included more than 300 positions with the City of Atlanta.