In Monroe County, about seven percent of the population is unemployed. But some have been feeling it more than others.

African Americans make up about one third of Rochester's population. But when it comes to the rate of unemployment, that number skyrockets. 

"In the city of Rochester for black men ages 18-24, that rate approaches 50%," says Bill Clark of the Urban League of Rochester.

These numbers aren't anything new. During the 1960s, the unemployment rate among African Americans reached 25% in Rochester. It sparked massive protests.

"One thing that we have been able to track over the years is that even when unemployment improves, the rate of unemployment among African Americans remains double that of the white community," says Clark.

The employment disparity hits hardest among African American men. Why? Clark says its because of a lack of job opportunities in poorer areas and the growing high school drop out rate. Its about  45%. 

"The higher the education, the likelier an individual is going to be employed," says Clark.

But The Urban League of Rochester is trying to do something about the employment disparity. They sponsor more than 35 employment programs. One of them is called Project Safe. Instead of sending people back to school, they bring GED training to them.

"We also teach the work skills. Many of these individuals will be placed on work sites," says Clark.

Brandon Wilson is one of the participants. He fell on hard times but says he knew it was time to get his life back together. Without this program, Wilson says he's not sure where he would be.

"Probably working...9 to 5 in a job I hate. Not looking forward to nothing," says Wilson.

But now Wilson does have something to look forward too.

"Its going to open the doors of life. Without a GED, you cant even work at McDonalds nowadays without a GED or some type of diploma."

They program has helped more than 100 people either earn their GED or get a job. Clark says as looks to the future, he's optimistic as well. He hopes that employment disparities will be a thing of the past. 

"But are we there yet? No," says Clark.