TO THE EDITOR:

In 2006, Youth Service Bureau celebrates its 30th anniversary ensuring the success of youth. Since our doors opened in 1976, YSB has served 35,000 youth and parents. Thatís a huge number to get your head around, so letís look at numbers for the year just ended.

In 2005, Youth Service Bureau worked with 1,603 youth, families and volunteers. 542 first-time and low-level youth offenders completed Community Justice programs. 76 at-risk youth and their families were provided counseling and support. 40 at-risk youth were helped to stay in school. 650 children participated in prevention services. 123 families received parenting services. 172 community adults participated as volunteers.

Within the 650 youth taking advantage of our prevention programs is a very important subset of young people: emerging leaders. Our Forest Lake and North Branch Advisory Boards, Focused Youth Improv (F.Y.I.) Troupe and teens enrolled in Students Against Destructive Decisions are learning skills which will prepare them to be active adult community members.

Numbers also reflect the impact of our work. Through tracking and evaluation, Youth Service Bureau keeps abreast of how its programs make a difference in the lives of youth and families we serve. Most recently compiled statistics point to the following success rates: 86 percent of youth referred to the program due to illegal activities (property offenses, assault, alcohol and drug offenses, status offenses) had no further involvement with the juvenile justice system six months after program completion.

88 percent of youth completing the program showed increased decision-making skills after six months. 89 percent of parents felt they would be able to communicate more effectively on the issue after attending the class. 88 percent of parents believed that their child would make better choices as a result of what was learned during YSB programs they completed. 80 percent of clients completing counseling reported a significant improvement in the problem they addressed in counseling.

By ensuring the success of youth and families, YSB is by extension working to strengthen entire communities. We encourage and invite individuals, businesses, churches and civic organizations to work with Youth Service Bureau.

Local support and networking will empower YSB to meet current needs and expand programs for our growing communities. Our 2005 annual report is available. Please contact YSB at (651) 464-3685 if you would like to receive a copy.

Pam Trudeau
Development and
Communications
Manager, YSB