PACT’s Community Advisory Council Focuses on Pelham Youth

From Pelham Public Schools:

PELHAM, NY - PACT’s Community Advisory Council meeting was held on Tuesday, October 25, at The Manor Club here in Pelham. The Council is made up of the many stakeholders in town who influence the lives of our youth. PACT focuses on giving the community a snapshot of the current emotional landscape for our teens, the work being done by several adults and the youth themselves to provide support, in exchange for the knowledge of youth that each coalition member has as a result of their unique perspective. Through this interactive exchange of information and ideas, from police officers, to school administrators, to parents, to health care providers, PACT is better informed and therefore better able to ensure the most comprehensive support network possible for our teenagers.

Dr. Peter Giarrizzo, Superintendent of Pelham Public Schools and member of the Advisory Council, said, "I am pleased that the school District and PACT continue to collaborate in meaningful ways that benefit of our students' well-being. Helping teens negotiate the combined stresses of school and the socioal scene is a delicate balancing act. When we work together the positive and supportive message they receive are that much stronger." PACT Executive Director, Laura Caruso, added, “There is such energy in the room when so many community members come together to understand and discuss ways to support our teens. Pelham does such a good job of supporting our little ones….sports, drama, art, dance, etc…..the network of support for our older kids is a bit more complicated, but just as important. It really does take a village.”

Image via Pelham Public Schools.