Bainbridge Youth Services Programs
Mental Health Counseling for Teens
Master level counselors provide over 1200 hours of free mental health counseling to local teens each year. More than half of the students self-refer while others receive a referral from a school guidance counselor, teacher, parent or friend. Students seek counseling when in crisis and for longer-term care. Concerns range from suicide and depression to assault and abuse.
Jobs Posting Board
Community members hoping to hire a teen for short term or ongoing jobs can post an opening on the BYS online Jobs Board. Teens registered with the program can connect with available jobs, enabling them to make money, connect with a new community member, and gain helpful work experience.
Juvenile Diversion
In partnership with the Kitsap County Juvenile Court, BYS operates the Bainbridge Island Diversion Program. Diversion is an alternative to the court system for a youth, under 18 years of age, who gets arrested for a misdemeanor. Youth meet with Diversion Board members and create a contract for the teen. Contracts may include victim reparations, anger management classes, community service, or counseling.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Recent Success
BYS recently received the top regional honor in the 2012 Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) Community Recognition Awards. WASA holds annual regional awards ceremonies to honor organizations or individuals who provide exceptional service to the students of their districts. Nominated by the Bainbridge Island Superintendent of Schools, BYS representatives attended the May ceremony. Out of nearly 45 districts across Western Washington, BYS was selected as exemplary. This recognition highlights the great work accomplished by Bainbridge Youth Services.
Current Need
The team at Bainbridge Youth Services is constantly working to improve and expand the programs and services available to local youth. As part of this, we are launching an Outreach and Education Initiative to provide information and resources to community teens and families. To help make this new effort a success, we are looking for sponsors, speakers, and volunteers.