Brooklyn Park Youth Intervention Services: Changing Lives and Building Futures
The Zanewood Recreation Center is making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth and young adults through its prevention and intervention services.
Led by prevention and intervention specialist, Kelvin Currington, the program aims to empower vulnerable individuals and provide them with the support they need to thrive.
According to Currington, the program is designed to address various aspects of young people’s lives.
“We work on helping young people focus on changing their behavior, as well as assisting them in finding housing if that is a barrier they are facing,” said Currington. “We establish connections with schools to help young people navigate challenges related to behavior and other issues they may encounter.”
Currington supports individuals in the program by connecting them with life coaches, as well as assisting with housing, food and other basic needs.
“One of the greatest success stories is a young person who was sleeping in a car and in the hallways of an apartment building,” said Currington. “I was notified about their situation through our intervention forum, and I reached out to the family to support them in finding housing, and today they have secured housing, food, and employment.”
Referrals Crucial to Program’s Growth
The intervention forum plays a crucial role in the program’s success by identifying and assisting those in need.
“When individuals submit our intervention form, they provide details about their needs. If someone refers another person, they inform me about the specific needs and support required,” explained Currington.
As the Zanewood Recreation Center strives to extend its reach, Currington and his team actively encourage referrals.
“We are continually seeking to expand the program and receive more referrals [because] our goal is to support as many individuals as possible,” stated Currington.
While referral forms are currently available exclusively at the Zanewood Recreation Center, the city will soon make them accessible online.
Visit the Zanewood Recreation Center’s website for more information.
