Happy Holidays
Wednesday, December 18, 2013 by sarah
Happy December CYSA Members!
I just wanted to take a moment to thank Youth Service Bureaus in Connecticut for another successful, productive, and dedicated year of service to Connecticut’s children, youth, and families! The roles which Youth Service Bureaus took on in both the triumphs and tragedies of our children, youth, and families this past year is something we all should be proud of! I realize that we are not in this field of work for recognition or accolades, but I think it is important that we know that the work we do really does make a difference in over 145 of Connecticut’s communities. Despite limited budgets, staff, and time stretched to the limit, YSBs always seem able to rise above these barriers and get the job done.
As we approach 2014 (I cannot believe I am saying that!), it is my firm belief that YSBs will remain at the forefront of diversion, positive youth development, intervention and prevention program & service work. It is our “grass roots” philosophy which makes YSBs so unique to our respective communities. I know how easy it is to get caught up in focusing on our local community in terms of the work which we do, and it is true that each community in CT is unique in its own way, so often we are guided by local politics and expectations (I experience this myself), but I believe that it is equally as important that we see ourselves as part of something larger as well.
The past year plus that I have been president of CYSA I have come to learn how truly important our association is as the loud & proud voice of CT YSBs! The CYSA Board is made up of volunteers from YSBs all over Connecticut who freely give their time and share their expertise in service to all YSBs. This group of people whom I have worked with over the past year have amazed me, guided me, supported me, and often made me laugh (which is so important!) So thank you to all the CYSA Board members (both past and present) whom have elevated this association to greatness, and helped me navigate my way: Past Board members Joel Rosenberg, Mary Roche-Cronin, David Melillo, Alan Slobodien, Chris Montes, Bob Petrucelli, Cheryl Chandler, Mary Pont & Susan Radway, thank you for all the guidance and confidence in me as I aspire to fill some very big shoes! The current CYSA Board: Erica Bromley (my very reliable VP), Terri Drew (treasured treasurer), Michelle Piccerello (secretary extraordinaire), Mary Seidner, Lori Stanczyc, Tammy Trojanowski, Kelly Cronin, Cephus Nolen, Bob Marsh, John Saccu, Steve Driffen, Peter Schultheis, Crystal Morawitz & Trish Torruella; you all have been amazing, and always step up whenever needed despite your own crazy busy schedules, this is appreciated more than words can express.
I would also like to thank our wonderful consultant Sarah Bourdon, whose dedication and patience are admirable, Dr. Agnes Quinones from SDE who consistently advocates for YSBs and Dr. Barry Goff for helping YSBs navigate the world of RBA & data collection. And I would certainly be remiss if I did not offer my heartfelt thank you to our magnificent lobbyist, Jay Aronson, who is in the trenches of the State Capitol, consistently and diligently advocating on behalf of CYSA, and YSBs. He is truly a treasure!
Last, but certainly not least I would like to personally thank my staff and board members at the Montville YSB for their patience and support as my CYSA obligations often take me away from the office, I can leave knowing that everything will get done that needs to be done, and knowing this is the case is a gift which is priceless!
A happy, safe, & healthy holiday, and winter season to all of you! Please remember to share your success stories with all YSBs in CT. Email them to Sarah at cysa@ctyouthservices.org
Warmest regards ~ Barbara
