Positive Youth Development
Positive Youth Development is one of the four areas of focus for Youth & Family Services. Programs and offerings that fall under this banner are designed to provide positive growth experiences to youth in Portland and offer opportunities to engage in positive peer groups, learn a sense of self and self-esteem, meet other caring and positive adult role models, and increase involvement in the school and the community.
We're working on expanding our offerings in this area. Drop us a line and let us know what you'd like to see!
Race and Equity Leadership Training Series
With funding from the Middlesex United Way, we are partnering with Durham Middlefield Youth & Family Services and East Hampton Youth Services to conduct Youth Listening Circles and Race and Equity Leadership Training with our friends at the State Education Resource Center (SERC).
We had two Portland youth join with two kids from Durham Middlefield and participate in the Youth Listening Circle held on February 7, 2023. It was a great conversation about culture, equity, social media, school climate, and more; all from our students' point of view.
We're inviting those kids back -- along with other youth who are interested -- and adult community members to the first of two Race and Equity Leadership Trainings on March 7, 2023. Contact Jesse to sign up!
Drop-In & Draw
We run two Drop-In & Draw programs each month.
The after-school program is usually the 2nd Tuesday of the month and gives kids an after school activity outside of school. We have paints and canvas, drawing paper, coloring books, lots of different options to let your creative side out.
The arts & crafts program is usually the 3rd Friday of the month and lets younger kids and their parents and caregivers a chance to come in and do a fun, seasonal craft. We also have take-home kits if you're not able to make it in.
January
Fork-Painted Polar Bears
February
Patriotic Popsicle Stick Gnomes
March
Handprint Shamrocks
