CONNECTING YOUTH & COMMUNITIES

The Ticonderoga-Putnam-Hague Connecting Youth & Communities Coalition (CYC) helps youth, families, schools, and community groups work together to promote well-being. The Coalition encourages and coordinates communication among these groups to plan, provide, and secure funding for initiatives that prevent youth substance abuse and other unhealthy behaviors. This Coalition was developed after members from our community gathered and identified risk factors affecting our youth.

Communities Mobilizing for Change on Alcohol (CMCA)

CMCA is an arm of CYC that tackles community laws and traditions that deal with alcohol and drugs. For instance, there is a "norm" that drinking alcohol at middle and high school ages is okay within reason. However, laws have been put in place to protect youth, such as making 21 the legal age to begin drinking.

Despite these laws, many local youth have access to alcohol through older siblings, family members, and friends. CMCA encourages the community to change this tradition and for community members to stop purchasing alcohol for our under age youth.

After School Program

Middle School youth who are not involved in after school activities need a safe place to go after school. The CYC After School Program at the Ticonderoga Armory fits the bill. From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, 7th-10th graders in the Ticonderoga School District engage in a variety of stimulating activities.

The youth center offers a computer lab with access to the internet, open gym, ping pong, pool, and snacks in a friendly, safe atmosphere. Since it began in 2006, the CYC After School Program has gained popularity among youth, who enjoy themselves in a healthy and safe environment.

Youth Community Service Learning

In collaboration with PRIDE, CYC has developed a structure for youth community service learning opportunities with the school and community at-large to build neighborhood attachment and pride in the community. Service learning is defined as a form of experiential education in which students apply knowledge, critical thinking, and good judgment to address genuine community needs.

The Project focuses on making community improvements, and an important component of this strategy is to develop opportunities to engage youth who normally would not get involved in community service projects.

* The Ticonderoga Skate Park is on its way. The skate park committee meets monthly to discuss the program and to move the plans along. If you are interested in this community service project please contact Kristi Mars.