What
Youth Workers and Youth Care Providers Symposium,
sponsored by Boston Centers for Youth & Families

When
Thursday, March 13, 2008
8:30-2:00 p.m.

Where
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Watson Auditorium

Information
The goal of this free symposium is to introduce citywide and neighborhood-based youth workers and youth care providers to each other so they can develop a consistent process for networking, partnership-building and strategy development. An important outcome of the symposium will be to provide coordinated and consistent support to youth during the summer months.

The symposium will include group, panel, and workshop discussions on the following topics: addressing the school drop out rate; re-entry issues for youth offenders; youth violence and trauma; taking a strong stance against violence; youth and adult partnerships; interactive activities; strategies for including youth with Asperger’s syndrome, autism spectrum disorders and other social challenges; social justice education; supporting parents during stressful and uncertain times; and proficiency and high achievement. In addition, panelists will share their views on youth-related issues and best practices on collaborative efforts.

Awards will be presented in the categories of Youth Worker of the Year, Outstanding Youth Role Model of the Year, and Innovative Youth Services Agency of the Year. These awards will be given out based on nominations, and recipients of the award must meet a number of requirements, including a documented record of their accomplishment and a demonstrated commitment and compassion towards youth. Furthermore, they must also be Boston residents working with agencies based in Boston.

Speakers

• Mayor Thomas M. Menino
• Daphne Griffin, Executive Director, Boston Centers for Youth & Families
• Deborah Prothow-Stith, Harvard School of Public Health

Wentworth Institute of Technology
Founded in 1904, Wentworth Institute of Technology is an independent, co-educational nationally ranked institution offering career-focused education through 15 Bachelor degree programs in areas such as architecture, computer science and systems, construction management, design, engineering, engineering technology, environmental science, and management. For over a century, Wentworth has been a leader in technical education known for its academic excellence, community service, and support for the economic growth of the region. For more information, please visit www.wit.edu.