Home ›

Positive Youth Development

in


Healthy youth means giving our teens the best guidance and support to help them avoid risky behaviors, grow socially and emotionally, and move successfully into adulthood.  United Way's partnership with Westport and Weston's Positive Youth Development Initiative offers a variety of programs that engage parents and youth.

What is Positive Youth Development?

Positive Youth Development (PYD) is a unique, decade-long partnership of United Way, Westport Schools, Westport’s PTA’s, Department of Human Services and Positive Directions. Its mission is to promote the positive development of children and youth in their families, in their schools, among their peers, and in their communities.

How PYD programs are viewed in the community

 “I'd like to personally thank all those whose contributions have added up to one of the most illuminating life moments I've ever had. [Creating Lasting Family Connections] enriched the lives of every dad in that room. We're all much the better and happier for it. And so are our kids and spouses. And the world, for that matter. I can't thank you enough.”
Best,
Dwight Wayne (Robin) Batteau, jr.

Parent
  

 

Collectively we can do more:

  • The effective PYD collaboration has helped bring two million dollars in state funding in to the area.
  • PYD co-sponsored Michael Nerney lecture on the effects of alcohol on the teen age brain.  400 parents attended.
  • PYD worked with us to conduct the youth and parent surveys in Westport, Weston and Wilton. 
  • Youth surveys in Wilton and Weston show decrease in underage drinking among kids in 7 though 10 grade.  Statisticians tells us results are very likely applicable to 
    all three towns.  Other information obtained in the surveys with regard to parent and youth attitudes and behaviors are very helpful in planning new programs.
  • 60 parents attended Parent Connect sessions this year.
  • PYD email blasts allows information to go out quickly and bring more parents into parenting programs.
  • PYD's partnership with schools and the credibility the collaboration provides access to school professionals and counselors.  This is extremely useful in planning 
    new programs re: family stress during the college admissions process.
  • PYD model admired by the state and is being adopted by neighboring communities.
  • PYD relationship with PTA allowed Positive Directions to put information about programs into Back to School folders
  • PYD relationship with Town Youth Services donated the use of Toquet Hall for prevention programs at no cost.  Co-sponsored youth activity for 25 kids.
  • Co-sponsored parent forum on results of Westport survey.  40 parents attended 
  • PYD relationship with Town and School facilitated public access TV broadcast of parent forums which brought them to a wide audience at home