Community Youth Services (CYS) provides service to at-risk youth independence and engagement in the workforce. CYS can assist youth ages 15-19, who are currently enrolled in school. At-risk youth are less likely to convert successfully into adulthood. Success may include job readiness and academic attainment, and the ability to be financially independent. One of our goals is to prepare youth to be
active, productive members of society and avoid a life of crime. Youth often have several barriers that can decrease their chances of success. Poverty, juvenile delinquency, drop out of school, substance abuse, lack of supervision, and much more. In an effort to reduce school suspensions and juvenile crimes, Community Youth Services is working in partnership with the Auburn Police Department and Auburn School Department to provide the opportunity for students from Edward Little High School, Auburn Middle School and Franklin/Merrill Hill Alternative School who are suspended from school to attend the Suspension/Diversion Program at the PAL Center located at 24 Chestnut Street. The program is staffed by a Licensed Social Worker and an Ed Tech III/BHP who work together with students to address academic difficulties, behavior modifications and social-emotional development, encourage appropriate goal setting and community service projects. The Suspension/Diversion Program also coordinates with the Career Pathway Initiative Program to connect students to the workforce, career services, and local employment placement options.
