Waterbury Youth Services

06/03/2026

Inspiring Future Healthcare Leaders ⚕

Throughout May, Waterbury Youth Services' Linking Academics to Life (LAL) Youth Program had an incredible opportunity to explore healthcare careers through an immersive partnership with UConn Health Waterbury Hospital.

Youth participated in hands-on experiences twice each week, gaining valuable insight into the many professions that support both physical and mental well-being. From Behavioral Health and Physical Therapy to Nursing, Radiology, Pharmacy, Biomedical Engineering, the Emergency Department, and the Operating Room, participants were exposed to the wide range of services that help individuals and families thrive.

A special highlight of the program was learning about the importance of mental health care through interactive sessions with Behavioral Health professionals, helping youth better understand the connection between mental wellness, resilience, and overall health.

These experiences expanded career awareness and empowered our young people to see themselves as future leaders, advocates, and healthcare professionals in their communities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Commissioner Yarixa Lopez for her exceptional leadership, organization, and unwavering support in making this opportunity possible.

Together, we are investing in the next generation while continuing to break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote wellness for all.

Greater Waterbury YMCA

05/27/2026

We are so proud! 🎉🎊

05/22/2026

Waterbury Youth Services held its final attendance recognition event at Wilby High School, celebrating 18 students who demonstrated improved school attendance after being referred to the Truancy Prevention Program. The event was successful, with one student achieving an extraordinary 100% increase in attendance.

This initiative focused on youth who were chronically absent during the previous school year. In partnership with Waterbury Public Schools, the program implemented attendance challenges throughout the school year, closely monitored student attendance, and provided intentional case management support to help students succeed.

We are so proud of these students.

Greater Waterbury YMCA

05/22/2026

Trees are necessary in urban environments. They provide shade, better air quality, and increase green space.

Earlier this month, youth, through the efforts of , a branch of the , and community partnerships, experienced how rewarding planting a tree can be.

A heartfelt thank you to Mya Gray from and Joshua DeAnda from , for partnering on this meaningful youth tree planting initiative. The landscaping at Waterbury Youth Services now has two new trees.

This special project honors Waterbury Youth Services' 50-year legacy by empowering youth through environmental education, community stewardship, and hands-on impact. The trees planted will stand for generations as symbols of growth, resilience, and service.

We are grateful for your partnership in commemorating this historic milestone while investing in the future of our youth and community. 💚

05/18/2026

05/14/2026

Caps off, dreams on! 🎓✨

Today, we proudly celebrate the hard work, dedication, and incredible achievements of our POWER graduates. As a longstanding program at Waterbury Youth Services, POWER has empowered and graduated over 700 childcare providers under the exceptional direction of Felicia Diaz.

This milestone reflects years of perseverance, commitment, and a passion for strengthening our community through education and leadership.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026—your accomplishments inspire us all, and your future is filled with endless possibilities. We are proud of you! 💙

¡Birretes al aire y sueños en grande! 🎓✨

Hoy celebramos con orgullo el esfuerzo, la dedicación y los increíbles logros de nuestros graduados de POWER. Como un programa de larga trayectoria en Waterbury Youth Services, POWER ha apoyado y graduado a más de 700 proveedores de cuidado infantil bajo la destacada dirección de Felicia Diaz.

Este logro representa años de perseverancia, compromiso y pasión por fortalecer nuestra comunidad a través de la educación y el liderazgo.

¡Felicidades a la Clase de 2026! Sus logros nos inspiran a todos, y su futuro está lleno de posibilidades infinitas. ¡Estamos muy orgullosos de ustedes! 💙

Greater Waterbury YMCA

05/08/2026

During the school break in April, several students had the opportunity with Waterbury Youth Services, a branch of the Greater Waterbury YMCA, to visit the UConn.

Waterbury Youth Services partnered with the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension,4-H, (UConn 4-H) for an impactful day on campus. 🌱💙

Our youth explored future opportunities through:
✨ Careers in agriculture & urban farming
🐴 A visit to Horsebarn Hill
🍦 Ice cream at UConn Dairy Bar

From hands-on learning to new experiences, this day was all about broadening horizons, building connections, and investing in the future of our youth. Thank you to our incredible partners and supporters at 4H for helping us create meaningful opportunities in youth development. Together, we are growing tomorrow’s leaders.

05/06/2026

What an extraordinary day for Waterbury Youth Services at Youth Service Bureau (YSB) Day at the Capitol!

We were proud to stand alongside YSBs from across Connecticut to highlight the importance of youth voice, advocacy, and leadership. Our youth had the incredible opportunity to connect directly with local legislators, practice self-advocacy, and make their voices heard on issues that matter most to them.

From writing letters and creating video messages for legislators, to engaging with YSB advocates and lobbyists, participating in youth and legislator panels, and touring the Capitol — this day was filled with empowering experiences that inspired civic engagement and leadership.

We are proud of our young people for showing up, speaking out, and representing the future with confidence and purpose. Their voices matter, and today was a powerful reminder of the impact youth can make.

05/05/2026

We could not be prouder of our youth who participated in our Shark Tank. You showcased your confidence, ideas, and public speaking skills. Congrats!🎉