Membership & Friends of CYSA
Advocacy with State Legislature
The Advocacy Team along with the CYSA Lobbyist provides members with access to state legislators and updates on issues key to the work of the YSBs. CYSA testifies annually on numerous bills that bolster services to youth and families.CYSA also plans an annual YSB Day at the Capitol as well as regional Legislative Breakfasts to enable all YSBs the opportunity to meet with their legislator to highlight the important work of the YSBs. Find out more
State and Regional Representation
CYSA members across the state are represented on a number of statewide efforts including task forces and councils. CYSA meets with key state agencies regularly and participates in coordinating and planning services for children, youth and families.
Regional Support Groups
CYSA holds seven regional support groups for directors and staff of YSBs across the state. These are an excellent forum for both seasoned and new members to share program ideas, discuss common problems and create new linkages.
Online Support
CYSA’s website is a place to gather and exchange information. Members can post open job positions, access important reports,gain insight on upcoming report filings, link up with other members and learn about new and successful YSB programming.
Professional Development
CYSA offers various educational workshops and conferences throughout the year on topics relevant to the work of YSBs. Any staff of a member bureau is welcome to attend these events.
Technical Assistance
CYSA provides free technical assistance to YSBs regarding DCF reporting and budgets. In addition, mentoring opportunities for new YSBs, current Directors and/or YSB staff, ACU training, Best Practices and more. CYSA is a clearinghouse for programming ideas and organizational development.
Membership fees vary based on current grant amount.
Support the Connecticut Youth Services Association
- Receipt of the Annual Report
- Invitation to the Annual Meeting
- Training opportunities available at the member rate
- Inclusion on the CYSA email blast list
Fee for individual membership: $50/year | Fee for organizations and agencies: $100/year
Click here to download a Friends of CYSA application ». All applications must be approved by the CYSA Membership Committee.