Posts by Katiana Smith
Transforming Juvenile Justice: JRB Pros Dive into Advanced Restorative Training
What happens when you combine dedicated Juvenile Review Board (JRB) Case Managers, Administrators, and Facilitators with an innovative training program? The answer: a powerful shift in the world of juvenile justice. Thanks to the Greater Danbury LIST, a two-day Advanced Restorative Justice Training at Waterbury Youth Services recently made waves in the field.
Led by expert trainers Joe Brummer and Justin Carbonella, participants delved into the realm of trauma-informed restorative justice. The training focused on replacing punitive approaches with a restorative mindset that steers clear of harmful and oppressive systems. How did they achieve this? By incorporating engaging games, activities, and circle processes that allowed JRB professionals to fully embrace the principles of trauma-informed restorative practices.
With newfound knowledge and experience, these transformed JRB pros are ready to champion a more compassionate, healing-centered approach to justice, setting the stage for a brighter future for our youth. So, let's cheer for this game-changing training, as it continues to revolutionize the field of juvenile justice and create a brighter future for our youth!
Local Agencies Join Hands for a Dynamic RED Community-Wide Meeting
Recently, community representatives joined forces for a lively Racial & Ethnic Disparities (RED) community-wide meeting, facilitated by Waterbury Youth Services (WYS). The goal was to analyze data on youth demographics in the juvenile justice system and school disciplinary practices and find ways to reduce the disproportionate effects on youth of color.
The meeting featured a powerful lineup of agencies, including Bridge To Success, Center for Children's Advocacy, CSSD, FAVOR, Waterbury DCF, Waterbury Juvenile Probation, Waterbury Police Department, Waterbury Public Schools, Waterbury Youth Services, and YMCA of Greater Waterbury.
Through data-driven discussions and spirited brainstorming, the participants identified areas of concern and proposed innovative solutions to decrease disparities. The united front of community leaders left the gathering with a renewed sense of determination and commitment to create a more equitable future for all youth. Together, we can make a difference.
STIRring Up Change: Spring Break in DC
Spring break is usually a time to kick back and relax, but for the students in Waterbury's STIR program, it was an opportunity to connect, learn, and ignite change. These high school juniors and seniors, along with their facilitator Jurea, embarked on an unforgettable trip to Washington DC to deepen their understanding of systemic racism and amplify their voices.
STIR, a free after-school program, provides an uncensored space for students to explore the history of systemic racism and learn about Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). As part of their journey, the group visited the National Museum of African American History, where the exhibits brought the stories in their focus book, "Stamped" by Jason Reynolds and Ibram Kendi, to life.
But STIR isn't just about learning history; it's about empowering these young minds to create positive change in their community. By connecting with anti-racist leaders and initiatives in Waterbury, the students are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive future.
One of the program's most exciting projects is a documentary that captures the students' experiences, learnings, and personal growth. This visual testimony will be shared with their peers, spreading awareness and inspiring others to join the fight against racism.
So, while some may have spent their spring break on the beach, these young leaders were busy STIRring up change, proving that knowledge is power and that our youth hold the key to a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.
Passion Meets Purpose: WYS Advocates at YSB Day!
On April 26th, 2023, Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) team members Dominiqua, Rasheeda, and Olivia attended the Connecticut Youth Services Association (CYSA) YSB Day at the Capitol in Hartford, CT. They met with legislators to emphasize the crucial role that Youth Service Bureaus (YSBs) play in our communities.
Thanks to CYSA's leadership and support, WYS is proud to be designated by the State of Connecticut as the Youth Service Bureau serving the City of Waterbury. Together, we work tirelessly to promote the well-being of the state's children, youth, and families.
Our dedicated team advocated for the support and funding of YSBs, highlighting their importance in providing essential services and resources to young people. Our team members' passion for their work left a lasting impact on legislators and fellow YSB advocates.
The efforts of our WYS team at YSB Day have the potential to positively influence countless families across the state. Our collective dedication to the cause is truly commendable and inspires us all to strive for a better future for Connecticut's children, youth, and families.
Waterbury Youth Services Ignites a Passion for Learning at Youth Health, Wellness and Financial Reality Fair
Local Youth Empowered with Essential Knowledge for Healthy and Financially Responsible Lives
On April 12th, Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) captivated the crowds with their dynamic presence at the Youth Health, Wellness and Financial Reality Fair. Hosted by the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), the fair aimed to equip local youth with the vital tools they need to lead healthy, financially responsible lives.
WYS volunteers Akeem, Dominiqua, Olivia, and Judy infused their passion and expertise into the events, turning the WYS information table into a hotspot of engaging resources for the youth. Their infectious energy and dedication made the day both entertaining and informative. Collaboratively, they showcased Waterbury Youth Services' programs that promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
In the Youth Health & Wellness component of the fair, the WYS team showcased their organization's dedication to the holistic health of local young people. The diverse range of resources and activities at their table demonstrated how WYS effectively addresses the various dimensions of well-being, promoting a healthy lifestyle for the community's youth.
The Financial Reality component offered young attendees a unique opportunity to explore personal finance through an interactive, hands-on simulation. WYS volunteers, along with other local organizations, guided participants as they navigated the challenges of real-world financial situations. This engaging approach to financial education appealed to teens and provided them with valuable insights into the complexities of managing money.
Waterbury Youth Services extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board for hosting this transformative fair. By providing a dynamic stage for learning and empowerment, NRWIB has made a meaningful impact on the lives of the community's youth.
Lupines to Bloom at Waterbury Youth Services for Earth Day
Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated volunteers from the United Way of Greater Waterbury, the Small Manufacturers Association of Connecticut (SMA), and staff from Unipharm, Inc. and Click Bond, Inc. who brought the spirit of community and environmental stewardship to life on Earth Day. Their hard work will transform WYS grounds into a colorful, inviting landscape.
On April 21st, the enthusiastic group planted vibrant lupine bulbs in front of WYS, symbolizing the growth and potential of the youth who benefit from our programs. These committed volunteers, all SMA members, also landscaped the property, ensuring that WYS's grounds are as inspiring as the services provided to the community's youth. Their hard work and dedication highlight the importance of collaboration and community involvement.
As the lupines bloom, they'll serve as a constant reminder of the power of community spirit and collaboration.
Margaret Mead's words, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has," ring true for the lupine planting and landscaping project at WYS, demonstrating the power of community in creating a better world, one lupine at a time.
Spinning Pinwheels of Hope: Greater Waterbury CAC Raises Awareness for Child Abuse Prevention
On April 26, 2023, a vibrant display of 100 pinwheels brightened the headquarters of Waterbury Youth Services, catching the eyes of many. These spinning pinwheels were not there just for decoration; they served a much more significant purpose. The Greater Waterbury Child Advocacy Center (CAC) planted each pinwheel to raise awareness for National Child Abuse Prevention Month and remind residents that help is available for victims.
Our LAL youth participated in planting the pinwheels, demonstrating their commitment to this important cause.
The CAC team works diligently to protect children in the Greater Waterbury area, responding to allegations of child sexual abuse, child physical abuse, serious neglect, and domestic minor sex trafficking. Drawing strength from the combined knowledge and cooperation of multiple disciplines, the CAC's partners include the state's attorney’s office (both Adult and Juvenile), the Department of Children and Families, local police departments, State Troop A, trained medical personnel, mental health professionals, victim advocates from Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury, the Office of Victim Services, and Love 146.
The pinwheel serves as a vivid and dynamic reminder of the innocence of childhood and the resilience of children who have experienced abuse. Spinning gracefully in the wind, these pinwheels represent a call to action, urging the community to join the fight against child abuse and ensure the safety and well-being of every child.
It's crucial to act if you suspect a child is being abused. Please call the Department of Children and Families hotline at 1-800-842-2288, your local police department, or Waterbury Youth Services at 203-573-0264 to report your concerns.
The Greater Waterbury CAC is accredited as a Children's Advocacy Center by the National Children's Alliance. They provide free forensic interviews and medical examinations to help children in need.
Join the Greater Waterbury CAC and our LAL youth in raising awareness and making a difference for child abuse victims. Let's work together to create a world where every child can enjoy the carefree, joyful experience that the spinning pinwheels represent.
A Red Carpet Affair: Perfect Prom Project 2023
Glamour Meets Generosity
The Perfect Prom Project took center stage on April 22nd and 23rd, creating a dazzling and unforgettable experience for over 60 deserving youth. Our dedicated staff, volunteers, and generous sponsors joined forces to roll out the red carpet, making each participant feel like a star on their special night.
Witnessing the pure joy and excitement of the youth as they prepared for their prom was a touching reminder of the powerful impact our community can have when we come together to uplift and support one another.
Serving these incredible young people is at the core of our hearts, and we are already counting down the days until we can do it all again in 2024.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the companies that helped make the Perfect Prom Project a success: Chili's, Graham’s Florist, O'Rourke and Birch Florists, and San Marino Ristorante. Their contributions were instrumental in ensuring each participant felt like a true VIP on their red carpet journey.
A special mention goes to our amazing group of volunteers, Amy McKinstry, her daughter, and friends from Ridgefield High School, who worked tirelessly alongside our staff members to sort, arrange, and present our vast collection of promwear. Their dedication ensured a smooth setup, breakdown, and assistance for each and every youth that attended the event.
One of our exceptional student volunteers went above and beyond by raising funds to purchase make-up, gift cards, men's clothing, and refreshments for the event. This outstanding effort further elevated the unforgettable experience for our youth.
The Perfect Prom Project 2023 was a weekend to remember for all involved. The memories made, the bonds forged between staff, volunteers, and youth, and the magic of the red carpet will endure long after the music fades. As we look forward to 2024, we're excited to continue serving the youth and making dreams come true, one prom at a time.
Some Memorable Looks This Year
Kicking-Off Adolescent Immunization Action Week!
Ignite the Spark of Awareness and Promote the Importance of Adolescent Vaccines!
We hope you're as excited as we are about Adolescent Immunization Action Week, taking place from April 3rd to April 7th! Waterbury Youth Services had the pleasure of hosting Natasha Arce, a specialist from the Waterbury Health Department's Immunization Program, who came to share her knowledge and expertise with our youth.
Natasha didn't come empty-handed! She generously provided 45 fantastic gift bags to our LAL program youth, which were not only fun but also educational.
Each bag was filled with:
• Informative brochures on crucial adolescent immunizations, including Meningococcal, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines
• A handy water bottle to keep our youth hydrated
• A first aid kit for emergencies
• A hand sanitizer to ensure clean hands on the go
• A stylish pen for jotting down notes
This memorable encounter with Natasha Arce helped our young members understand the importance of immunizations in their adolescent years. We're thrilled that she could contribute to their well-being and make learning about immunizations a dynamic and enjoyable experience.
Don't forget to Spread the Word about Adolescent Immunization Action Week!
Let's all come together and promote a healthier future for our youth.
Stay healthy!
Give Hope, Give Support, Give Local Save The Date: Join WYS’ 36 Hour Campaign
Empower Young Lives, Shape Bright Futures
Save the Date:
Join us in supporting Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) during our 36-hour online Give Local Campaign
APRIL 25th & APRIL 26th
• WYS has been creating positive change for 47 years
• Help empower young lives and shape bright futures by supporting WYS, the designated Youth Service Bureau and Child Advocacy Center for the City of Waterbury.
• With your support, we can continue to offer our 16 programs at NO COST to our youth, providing the necessary resources for success in all aspects of life.
• Our Positive Youth Development approach inspires hope, change, and success for generations to come.
The Give Local Campaign starts on April 25th at 7am and ends on April 26th at 7pm