The Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies supports programs designed to develop the academic, vocational, employability and life skills of young people to prepare them for the challenges they face in life. The goal is for these services to aid youth now so they will grow into capable and responsible adults. It is hoped youngsters will use the skills they have learned in these programs throughout the rest of their lives to meet the social, emotional, economic and career challenges they will face. By providing a holistic system of supports and activities, the youth of today can aspire to be the leaders of tomorrow.

FPWA advocates for policies that will benefit the development and positive direction of the youth of New York City, including policies that will:

• Promote opportunities for youth to become actively involved in their communities and civic life, which will in turn aid them in becoming well rounded citizens.
  
• Provide youth with work and volunteer opportunities to learn marketable skills, including apprenticeships, on the job training and work experience activities at the high school and collegiate levels.
  
• Ensure youth have access to high quality enrichment activities that keep them connected to schools including Beacons, Summer Youth Employment and After-School programs.

Examples of key priorities in Youth Services include:

State

• Add funding for the Advantage After-School Program
  
• Add funding for the Youth Development and Delinquency and Prevention Programs

• Support new program funding targeted to serve immigrant youth
  
• Add funding for a Multi-Year Cost of Living Adjustment for youth service providers

For more information contact Kathleen Fitzgibbons, MPA Senior Policy Analyst.