Woodbridge Youth Services Happenings

State Trooper Samantha McCord of the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes and Electronic Evidence Unit provided a hands-on “Undercover Parent,” workshop for parents at Amity Middle School-Bethany on May 5. The presentation offered information on current pitfalls teens should avoid in the use of the latest technology. Discussion covered social networks, chat rooms, cyber-bullying, and online predators. Parents learned tools to review network profiles, and received tips to keep informed about teenage use of the internet. Woodbridge Youth Services and Amity Middle School-Bethany PTO sponsored the event at the Middle School with assistance from the Amity staff.

On April 20, 20 students received Home Alone certificates after they received instruction from Nancy Pfund, Director of Youth Services on topics such as homework completion, healthy snacks, internet safety, and answering the door or the phone. Vincent Lynch of the Woodbridge Police Department and Michael Cavanagh of the Woodbridge Fire Department discussed avoidance of drugs, calling 911, and proper response to emergencies such as injury, fire, and dealing with strangers. Each student also received take home packets to review with their parents.

The Woodbridge Job Bank has numerous teenagers who are looking for work. Many job bank teens are experienced in babysitting, and some have completed the American Red Cross Babysitters Training Course. According to Pfund, “We have young people waiting for the opportunity to do yard work.” If you are a Woodbridge resident and would like more information about the Job Bank, call Woodbridge Youth Services at 203-389-3429.

The Woodbridge Job Bank is looking for teens between the ages of 13 and 17 who are interested in earning some money. If you want to babysit, do yard work, office work, pet care, housework, or party help, Woodbridge Youth Services will help you find work with Woodbridge residents who need a hand around the home or office.  It’s a great way to gain work experience close to home. Students often receive great references for other jobs or for college. Please contact Woodbridge Youth Services at 203-389-3429 for more information.

Woodbridge Youth Services and Beecher Road School provided the opportunity for several students to receive ten weeks of homework assistance and test preparation through the Enhancement Grant awarded to Youth Services from the State Department of Education. Students received guidance after school during March and April.