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Northeast Youth & Family Services offers counseling in our community Northeast Youth & Fam- ily Services (NYFS) offers mental health and com- munity service programs to 4,000 youth, adults and families with an annual operating budget of $3.1 million. Arden Hills is one of many municipal partners that contribute financially to the organization. History of NYFS The organization was formed more than 40 years ago when several communi- ties decided there must be a better way to serve youth who were getting in trouble with the law, according to Jerry Hromatka, NYFS president and CEO. Years ago they would be arrested and go to jail. Today, many first-time offenders are in- stead served by the organi- zation’s Diversion Program, which offers restitutional justice through a combina- tion of community service, education and counseling. Serving the whole family “NYFS works with the whole family, not just the child, because these issues impact the whole family unit,” said Miriam Ward, who serves as the City’s volunteer board representative. Ward knows first-hand the issues facing young people and their families. One of her sons struggled with mental health con- cerns and substance abuse. He eventually spiraled out of control and went into the juvenile justice system. “He may have been one of the kids who was saved,” she said, had she known about NYFS at the time. “Are there more in our community who could benefit, but who don’t know about this service?” She asks. This is a question that is always in the back of her mind. A chance to help others In 2012, Ward saw a notice in the Arden Hills Notes newsletter seeking volunteers for the NYFS Board of Directors. She had recently retired and thought NYFS would be a good organization in which to give her time and talents. “It touched my heart that I was chosen to serve on the board,” said Ward, who brings previous board service to her role, as well as years of professional experience in human resources. She currently serves as chair of the organization’s human resources committee, and puts in anywhere from six to 45 hours per month, depending on the needs of the organization. Ward is in her final term of service, having served six years already. Her current term runs through June 2020. In addi- tion to her human resources role, Ward supports the organization’s fundraising efforts, including the annual luncheon, Mayor’s Challenge Golf Tournament, the annual Taste of NYFS event in the fall, and other initiatives. Although she is not directly involved with the families who receive services, Ward said she is grateful knowing she is making a contribution to help the children and families who come to NYFS. Hromatka agrees. "Miriam is a gem," he said. "We are so grateful to have her on board. We can't overstate the value she has added to our organization." Volunteer opportunities “Anyone who wants to volunteer or donate, should call NYFS,” Miriam said. “They do so much for the communities they serve, and you can see how early intervention in the lives of young people can do so much to help them.” NYFS works with local school districts and staff to support youth at school and at home. The day treatment programs serve youth in grades 5-12, who receive aca- demic instruction at NYFS in conjunction with mental health support and counseling during the day. The organization also offers community service and youth development programs, like the Senior Chore Program, that help seniors live in their homes for as long as possible. For more information, visit nyfs.org, or call 651-486-3808. Upcoming event Mayor's Challenge Golf Tournament Monday, June 11 Call Sandra Bahr at 651-379-3422. Pictured are City Administrator Dave Perrault, Community Leader Nick Roberts, Councilmember Brenda Holden, Mayor David Grant, Councilmem- ber Fran Holmes and NYFS Board Member Miriam Ward.