In many ways, 2009 was a tough year across the board as everyone continued to feel the economic crunch.
But Oxford-Addison Youth Assistance (OAYA) emerged strong as ever as it wrapped up another 365 days of helping others and making a difference in families? lives.
?2009 was very successful,? said OAYA Caseworker Hank Szlenkier. ‘We continued to provide a high level of services. Fund-raising was down a little bit, but nothing to complain about. The number of volunteers remains high.?
OAYA is dedicated to preventing juvenile delinquency, child neglect and child abuse through a variety of positive programs.
‘In these trying financial times, you aren’t going to find anything like this,? Szlenkier noted. ‘People don’t have insurance, their jobs are in jeopardy, they’re stressed out. We need programs like this more than ever.?
According to OAYA’s 2009 annual report, presented during a Feb. 25 dinner at Oxford High School, the group helped 96 at-risk youths through casework services provided by Szlenkier; taught 309 sixth-graders the consequences of shoplifting; sent 36 kids to four summer camps; awarded Skill Building grants to 13 youths so they could take part in positive activities and trips; took over 40 youths Christmas shopping at Meijer; and found adult mentors for two youths.
‘I would have thought the economy would have hit worse, but I’ve always been humbled by this community and their willingness to volunteer and provide financial support,? Szlenkier said. ‘I feel truly blessed to be in Oxford and to have the commitment of our sponsors and our contributors.?
Last year, OAYA received private donations from community groups, businesses and individuals amounting to $28,000, according to the annual report.
OAYA received more than $130,000 in funding from its governmental sponsors, which include Oxford Township and Village, Oxford Community Schools, Addison Township, the Village of Leonard and Oakland County.
Considering the work that’s done and the impact that it’s had on local families and youth, Szlenkier believes OAYA is a ‘low cost, highly effective? program.
‘Ninety percent of the youth who receive our services, either casework or other programs, have no contact with the court system, probate or circuit,? he said. ‘The research proves it’s effective.?
In addition to youth services, OAYA also offers programs that teach parenting skills such as the five-week course called ‘The Relaxed Parent: Ending the Power Struggle.?
Listening, dialogue and problem-solving skills are highlighted in this program, which focuses on the belief that parenting becomes more enjoyable and effective when mom and dad understand how stress affects behavior.
Szlenkier admires parents who make the time to attend these classes despite being tired and frazzled out from their jobs. ‘I see them struggling, trying to get in the door,? he said.
That’s why OAYA works hard to make things a little easier for them by providing childcare services and a light dinner. ‘We try to make it as accessible as possible,? Szlenkier said.
For more information about OAYA and its programs, call (248) 969-5177.
Another successful year for OAYA added by on
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