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Youth Services

FSW’s Youth Services offers year round programming to youth ages 12-23 from the Greater Bridgeport area who are referred to our programs. Under the direction of adult and youth role models, mentors, trainers and staff, youth are motivated to learn life, employment, entrepreneurship, business and leadership skills by participating in youth businesses and entry-level jobs, linking the world of work and learning. Students learn and practice appropriate behavior, reduce involvement with the legal system, set and attain goals to prepare for further education and/or to enter the workplace. FSW engages families of the students to build a stronger family unit. Youth participate in one or more of the following programmatic areas. For more information contact Dawn Hatchett, V.P. of Programs at (203) 368-5553 or contact online.

The Youth Business Center (YBC) offers five businesses during after school hours. Bridgeport Boat Works provides opportunities to build and sell or restore private boats as students learn carpentry, applied math and blueprint reading skills. On Smash Media Group teaches students to transfer audio and video media and create product and sales opportunities. Park City Guitars offers opportunities to manufacture, repair, market and sell custom made guitars and other stringed instruments and fine crafted jewelry boxes. Parker’s Pampering LLC provides an opportunity for students to explore cosmetology as a career. They learn basics of nail care, hand and foot massage, grooming and good hygiene practices. Photography and Computer Design a program that introduces youth to photography in conjunction with computer design, and that may prepare them for employment opportunities. Services include instruction on digital photography, as well as the use of laptop computers with appropriate software. In all five businesses, students learn about teamwork and communication, gain valuable employment, business and life skills, and increase their self esteem in a positive and supportive setting. For more information contact Jeanine Lyke, Program Coordinator at (203) 368-5629 or contact online.

The Juvenile Case Management Collaborative (JCMC) provides services for Greater Bridgeport area youth ages 11-18 who are currently or have recently completed parole and are committed to the Department of Children and Families by partner agencies. They receive case management services including transportation, home or community visits, family assistance to ensure they achieve and sustain social, psychological and physical functioning. Clinical, health and educational support is offered as well as recreational opportunities, employability and life skills. For more information, contact Dawn Hatchett, V.P. of Programs at (203) 368-5553 or contact online.

Connecticut Youth Opportunity Strategy Youth aged 16-21 committed to DCF receive financial and asset education, budgeting, job coaching and placement assistance. We offer matched savings for the acquisition of an asset through an Individual Development Account. They may also participate on the Youth Leadership Board. Contact BethAnn Jackson, CT Youth Opportunity Strategy Specialist at 368-5627 or contact online.

Support Team for Educational Progress (STEP) provides educational re-entry services and delinquency prevention services for DCF committed youth, ages 12-17, who reside in Bridgeport. An integrated team of professional education staff manages and coordinates educational and vocational activities. For more information contact Mark Roos, Program Coordinator at (203) 368-5534 or contact online.

Download Youth Services Brochure (PDF Format)