Director of Youth Services Sets Positive Example for Local Teens

Erica Hansen has been making a positive impact on the lives of teens in North Reading since she started as director of youth services in November of 2010. 

Hansen considered going to law school after graduating from UMass Amherst with a bachelor's degree in political science. However, after working temporarily for an attorney she decided that law was not the field for her. She then transitioned to another job as an assistant program supervisor for a behavioral treatment residence for teen girls.

"I ended up loving it and always strive to be a good mentor to youth and instill confidence and self-worth in them. I am now looking into graduate programs to get my masters in social work," she said.

When asked why she chose the town of North Reading, Hansen said, "When I moved back to the Boston area I decided that I wanted to work with youth in a setting that was positive thinking and forward moving and working in North Reading seemed to be a great opportunity to do so."

Aspects of her job she enjoys most: spending time with teens in town and networking with other professionals in her field.

"The best part is when students come to me with ideas or requests and we make them come alive like we did with the Urban Art Workshop and Gay-Straight Alliance," she said.

Hansen offers various programs including middle and high school youth group, a mentoring program where high school students mentor elementary school students, vacation activities, teen workshops, community service, gay-straight alliance and individual services.

She facilitates a program called “Pay Your Respect and Shovel a Vet.” The program started last year and aims to assist seasoned veterans and elderly with disabilities by shoveling after snowstorms. 22 kids participated, along with Hansen, last year and shoveled walkways and driveways and brushed off cars at seven homes after winter storms. Parents chipped in by shoveling and driving the teens from home to home.

One of the biggest challenges she faces now is not having space for teens. Although the , schools and parks are places she can utilize, she would prefer to have a space specifically for teens.

Hansen not only thrives to provide a positive environment for teens, but as an upstanding citizen she provides a positive role model as well.