NEWS
Men cite role models, advocacy as ways to stop domestic violence against women This event was organized by the African American Men of Westchester Inc., the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., My Sisters' Place and Grace Baptist Church Men's Ministry. The Youth Shelter residents were participants. Click here to read entire article.
Youth Shelter Program of Westchester celebrates graduates and student accomplishments. Reginald Lafayette speaks to students at Graduation/Recognition Program held on August 10, 2011. For immediate release: August 10, 2011 – On August 10, 2011 four (4) students residing at Westchester County’s only alternative to incarceration for youth offenders ages 16-21 celebrated a milestone by graduating high school while incarcerated. The students achieved this all while they are remanded to the Youth Shelter Program of Westchester, Inc.(YSPW) in Mount Vernon. Five (5) other students earned their General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.) and seven (7) others were recognized for their accomplishments in education. The event was held at Mandela High School in Mount Vernon. The students overcame incredible odds to accomplish this feat. Most of the students had been out of school for quite some time prior to their arrests while others had given up hope of ever finishing school. While education is available to those who are incarcerated, it is optional and students can and do refuse. The YSPW education program is a mandatory requirement for admission. The guest speaker for the event was Reginald Lafayette, Westchester County Democratic Committee Election Commissioner, who inspired the graduates with an very inspirational speech. "Consider this day as the very first day of the beginning of your life," said Lafayette. YSPW accepts Alternative-to-Incarceration (ATI) referrals from Criminal and Supreme Court judges in Westchester County for youth who are awaiting trial on a wide range of criminal charges. Created more than 30 years ago, the 12-bed facility in Mount Vernon is the only residential program which accepts referrals of young people in this age group from the adult criminal court system and one of very few programs of any type focusing on this population in New York State. Learn more about the Youth Shelter Program of Westchester, Inc at www.ysow.org Contact: Tiffany Santana, 914-668-4702
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We Provide a Safe and
Secure Environment for
Young Men Ages 16 to 21 Who Are Awaiting
Trial in Westchester County Courts
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