Posts by Katiana Smith
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
From Mentee to Mentor: A Heartfelt Gift Sends Kids on an Urban Air Adventure
WYS Kids Set to Conquer Urban Air Adventures!
We've got some exhilarating news that's going to lift your spirits sky-high!
Naleah, a former Mentee and Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) Summer Camp Counselor, currently working at Urban Air Adventure Park in Waterbury, has generously donated 50 passes for our amazing WYS kids!
Naleah's inspiring journey began when she received mentorship at Waterbury Youth Services. Her experiences with WYS and the mentoring program shaped her into a dedicated leader, which led her to work at our cherished Kiwanis Summer Camp.
Now, Naleah's heartwarming gift will grant our young adventurers an unforgettable day of fun at Urban Air! From trampolines and obstacle courses to indoor skydiving and more, our kids are in for a day they'll never forget!
Naleah's incredible act of kindness showcases the lasting impact WYS and our mentoring programs have on our community members. Her journey from mentee to mentor and her continued commitment to WYS kids is a testament to the power of our programs.
We're deeply grateful for Naleah's wonderful gift.
Radio Waves of Prom Excitement: Waterbury Youth Services Talks Perfect Prom Project with WATR Radio!
We've got some exciting news to share! Waterbury Youth Services recently had a fantastic time on WATR 1320 AM radio station with the amazing Tom Chute, talking all about our upcoming Perfect Prom Project! Olivia Dudley, Director of Program Operations, and Rasheeda Latch, our Juvenile Justice Team Leader and Prom Project Coordinator joined the conversation on Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023.
But wait, there's more! This year, our Perfect Prom Project is going BIG, giving away prom dresses, tuxes, and suits to students in Connecticut! We want YOU to say YES to the dress, tux, or suit, and look fabulous on your special night.
Ready to pick out your dazzling Prom Drip? Don't wait any longer! Book your appointment now and make your prom night one to remember.
Book here.
Kind Hearts Make A Difference: Celebrating Lynn Ward & Waterbury Regional Chamber’s Exceptional Dedication!
On Friday afternoon, March 24th, 2023, Waterbury Youth Services had the immense pleasure of honoring the phenomenal Lynn Ward and the dedicated Waterbury Regional Chamber with our very first "Kind Hearted Award" during a special recognition luncheon event hosted by Waterbury Youth Services!
This award recognizes the unwavering commitment of Lynn and her team, as well as the generous support of the Waterbury Regional Chamber, in empowering our youth and making a lasting impact. Their selfless efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of countless young people, and we couldn't be more grateful. The Kind Hearted Award presentation was an emotional and heartwarming moment for Lynn and her team, who have dedicated themselves to uplifting the Waterbury community.
Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and expressing our heartfelt appreciation to Lynn Ward and the Waterbury Regional Chamber for their incredible work in making our community a better place.
Here's to the power of kindness and the inspiring individuals who make a difference every day!
Burger King Sizzles into Waterbury with a Bang!
Burger King Opens with a Nod to Waterbury Youth Services
Hey there, burger lovers and community champs!
Guess who just fired up the grill in our very own Waterbury neighborhood? That's right, Burger King has arrived, and they made a royally grand entrance! This past Saturday, March 25th, our new neighbors hosted a spectacular grand opening, complete with a ceremonious ribbon-cutting event!
We couldn't be more thrilled to share that the Burger King Regional Director's children have personally benefited from Waterbury Youth Services (WYS) programs, and they wanted to acknowledge our hard work in the community.
We are honored and grateful for their recognition.
During the grand opening, Burger King presented WYS with a generous $1,000 donation! We're immensely grateful for their support and excited to welcome them to our vibrant neighborhood. It's truly heartwarming to see businesses like Burger King give back to the community.
So, what are you waiting for?
Head over to our new Burger King and celebrate their grand entrance while chomping down on a juicy Whopper!
Stay fabulous, Waterbury!
Our Studio Arts Program Honors Black History Month
A Journey of Self-Love and Empowerment
We're proud to share the stunning works of art our Studio Arts program created during Black History Month. Our talented artists, with their Facilitator Tatiana Ramos, explored the beauty, history, and significance of black hair, and created unique pieces that capture its essence and celebrate its cultural importance.
For centuries, black hair has been more than just a physical feature. It has been a symbol of identity, resistance, and self-expression. In our Studio Arts program at Waterbury Youth Services, we wanted to honor this important aspect of black culture during Black History Month.
The talented artists in our Studio Arts program at Waterbury Youth Services wanted to pay tribute to this important aspect of black culture. They researched the history of black hair and its cultural significance, and they learned about the many ways black women style, protect, wear and show off their hair.
With this newfound knowledge, our artists created stunning pieces of art that celebrate the beauty and diversity of black hair. From intricate braids and twists to colorful headwraps and natural afros, each piece captures the unique spirit and personality of black hair.
Through their art, our artists have shown that black hair is more than just a physical feature. It is a source of pride, resilience, and creativity that has been passed down through generations. It is a symbol of self-love and empowerment that deserves to be celebrated and honored.
Get Ready to Shine at Prom with Waterbury Youth Services’ Annual Perfect Prom Project
Look Your Best Without Breaking the Bank
Prom is a night to remember, but finding the perfect outfit can be stressful - and expensive. But on April 22nd and April 23rd from 10am-2pm, high school students can snag their dream prom attire for FREE.
That's right - free dresses, suits, and tuxes!
From dresses and suits to tuxes and gowns, we've got it all! Plus, you'll have the chance to try on your outfit and select accessories - from jewelry to shoes - to complete your look.
We know how important prom is to high school students, and we believe that everyone should have the chance to feel confident and beautiful on this special night. That's why we're thrilled to provide this opportunity to our community for FREE so you don't break the bank.
So what are you waiting for? Say yes to the dress (or suit or tux) and book your appointment today!
And don't forget to share the news with your friends and family - we want to help as many high school students as possible have the prom of their dreams.
Helping Girls Find Their Voice: Join Live Girl Confidence Club at WYS
Attention all girls in grades 6-9!
Are you looking for a safe and supportive space to develop your self-esteem and social emotional intelligence? Look no further than Live Girl Confidence Club, hosted by Waterbury Youth Services.
This free program provides a BRAVE SPACE for girls to develop self-esteem, social emotional intelligence, and empathy - the building blocks of a confident and inclusive leader. Confidence Club provides girls with a positive adult role model and creates a safe space for girls to be their authentic selves.
The small group meets weekly on Wednesdays from 3:45-5pm at Waterbury Youth Services with a professional mentor to share concerns and interests. The curriculum-based program builds social emotional intelligence and self-esteem, the building blocks of a confident leader. Confidence Club speaks life into young girls, inspires them, helps them flourish, and to be their authentic selves.
Youth can register at any time. So, what are you waiting for? Register today at goLiveGirl.org/confidence-club and pick Waterbury Youth Services location to attend.
Join us at Live Girl Confidence Club and become the confident and inclusive leader you were born to be.
WYS Staff Become CPR Certified
Waterbury Youth Services staff recently took a vital step in being prepared for emergency situations by completing a CPR certification course. The course, which was taught by Sha'Kenya Whittaker, the owner of Just Breathe CT, LLC, was a combination of online and in-person training. This innovative approach allowed staff to learn the necessary skills and knowledge to properly perform CPR in emergency situations, while also minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
The staff members who participated in the course are now equipped with the life-saving skills necessary to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a medical emergency. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical skill that can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Knowing how to perform CPR can help to keep oxygen and blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until medical help arrives.
According to Sha'Kenya Whittaker, the course was designed to be both informative and engaging. The online component of the course allowed staff to learn the basics of CPR at their own pace, while the in-person training provided hands-on practice and instruction. Our staff members were also taught how to use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), a device that can be used to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm in certain types of cardiac arrest.
WYS extends their gratitude to Sha'Kenya Whittaker for her expert instruction and guidance throughout the course. The certification they received is a testament to their commitment to serving their community and ensuring the safety of those around them. They can now act quickly and confidently in an emergency, potentially saving a life in the process.
