Naugatuck Youth Services Inc

Diversion-operation of the juvenile review board (jrb) for naugatuck. Jrb was developed through a partnership with the naugatuck police department in 2010, and continues to evolve to provide effective diversion from the juvenile justice system, as well as support for youth and their families in the community. Youth are most commonly referred to this diversion program as an alternative to arrest or court referral. A panel of volunteer representatives from several community partners works collaboratively with youth and their guardians to develop restorative agreements. This year, 88 youth and their families engaged with the jrb in the restorative process and received case management services.

Life skills-provides opportunities to enhance young people's abilities to be successful at home, in school, and in life through a number of programs including a youth employment program, after school and summer recreational groups and programs, peer mentoring, and leadership developement programs. This year, 64 youth participated in the summer youth employment program where they received hands-on experience working in local businesses and received a paycheck. Peer mentoring and youth leadership programs positively impact mentors and mentees by creating a kinder, more positive culture in our community. This year, 28 students attended a skill-building overnight weekend trip at camp jewell in colebrook, ct.