We are happy to announce the expansion of our Community Connections program – a seven-week, group-based experience for youth that builds social skills, self-confidence and resilience through career exploration, volunteer activities and connections with other community service organizations.
“The Community Connections Program gives youth healthy outlets in the community,” says Sam McGinnity, Community Connections Coordinator. “It also builds healthy life habits and develops social skills.”
The program began as an additional support for youth in our Diversion program. Offered in a Covid-safe format during the height of the pandemic, first full session out in the community recently concluded with enthusiastic participation from youth, parents/caregivers, and staff at local libraries, community centers and educational institutions who welcomed youth into these spaces. Based on the success of the program, and an increasing need to support youth struggling with a lack of connection to their community that has been exacerbated by the pandemic, NYFS applied for and received generous $50,000 grant from the Roseville Area Community Foundation to expand the program and serve youth outside the Diversion program as well.
The next seven-week Community Connections session is already underway with many more planned for the future.
