Future of Local Youth Discussed at Peekskill Agencies Together Roundtable

Representatives from more than 30 organizations attended a roundtable discussion about the future of local youth on Wednesday. Peekskill Agencies Together brought together local politicians Mayor Mary Foster, Councilwoman Marybeth McGowan, County Legislator District 1 John Testa and groups like Family Ties of Westchester County, The Department of Social Services, Child Protective Services, the Salvation Army and Hudson River Health Care to discuss programs that help keep kids on a positive life path.

The coalition is currently looking for more funding from the state and federal government to support their programs and to keep the local youth out of trouble and in school.

“The reason this coalition is so successful is because all these different groups wear many different hats,” said Peekskill Mayor Foster. The mayor has been an active member of the coalition and is determined to keep the program thriving and helping youth throughout the city.  

P.A.T. Execute Director Valerie Swan addressed the roundtable, “We all serve together with one common denominator, to serve the youth of our community.” Swan also stressed the importance of early intervention and keeping the youth busy and off the streets.

The P.A.T. Coalition works to:

-reduce the ability of youth in our community to access alcohol and other drugs

-ensure that youth and parents alike are provided with sufficient information

-affirm and recognize the youth that participate in positive activities

-strengthn community bonds and increase community collaboration

“This is our future,” said Sen. Greg Ball. “It is vital that programs like this stay in place to keeps kids out of trouble and in school. I applaud all the organizations that are involved in P.A.T., that collectively do their part, to create a safe and prosperous environment for our young people.”