Celebrating Youth

To the Editor,

Each year Newtown Youth Services sets aside the month of May as Celebrate Youth Month for special recognition of Newtown’s youth. This year we are pleased to announce that there is a large population of wonderful youths out there who go about their business day-to-day leading, helping, and caring for others.

On May 6, more than 50 volunteers of all ages participated in Independent Living Day where youths helped senior citizens with chores around the house. In honor of the Middle School Youth Advisory Board, a Proclamation from the First Selectman was presented to them on May 17 as National Kids Care Club of the month. Four High School Youth Advisory Board Scholarships were awarded at NHS on May 18 to four graduating seniors, for exceptional community service. Over 120 people were in attendance as our Outstanding Youth Awards were presented on may 25 to 39 deserving young people who made a difference just be being themselves.

Just a couple of weeks before, on May 12, Youth Services hosted a fabulous Talent Show at the Newtown Middle School where 62 energetic, enthusiastic, talented performers put on quite a show for a very appreciative standing-room only audience. Lastly, on May 22, with our Annual Gail Smith Awards, we honored one adult, Bob Tendler, one youth, Erin Lewis, and one local business, The Newtown Bee, who have each made a significant contribution to the betterment of services provided to Newtown’s youth.

Our thanks to Bob Tendler Real Estate, Drs Licht and Holloway, J.P. Maguire Assoc., and Dr Hank Gellert, for sponsoring the Talent Show this year, and additional thanks to the myriad of volunteers, adult and youth, who assist us each year, helping to make Celebrate Youth Month truly special.

There are many opportunities to catch young people doing good things – whether caring for a sibling, tutoring other students, planting a garden, or dancing on a stage. These youths make a difference in our world. They are deserving of our praise.

Sincerely,

Deborah Richardson, Director

Jane Todorski, Assistant Director

Anita Arnold, Office Manager

Roseanne Loring, Program Coordinator / Parent Ed.

41A Main Street, Newtown                                        May 26, 2000