Local nonprofit announces new program
SPARTA — Pass it Along in conjunction with a mental health advisory panel, announced they will be launching a new program, Get Connected in January.
The program is designed to help young people discover and create options to build a successful future.
Get Connected is a program to help young people in Sussex County, ages 16 to 22 with social, emotional or behavioral issues, attain readiness skills necessary to develop a sense of purpose and connection within the community, according to a news release from Pass It Along.
It is a free program that provides support through workshops and volunteer opportunities. Its purpose is to assist young people to explore their interests for building a successful future and establishing individualized goals.
Participants will experience an individualized approach to exploring interests and talents with a focus on developing meaningful connections in the community, establish a sense of purpose and belonging by developing a social network through volunteerism and develop confidence and readiness in order to transition to higher education or employment. Access to volunteer opportunities will foster social confidence and independence to achieve goals.
The program will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Pass It Along office, located at 60 Blue Heron Road, Suite 100 in Sparta.
Youth will meet with project leaders for three consecutive Tuesdays for one-and-a-half hour workshops that will be experiential and interactive. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their strengths, discover the value of service, and set personal goals.
Parents may also participate in a single orientation session on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m.
Following the three week workshop segment of the program, Get Connected participants will select a volunteer opportunity from a list of service projects that Pass It Along has organized with Sussex County community partners. They will volunteer along with other youth volunteers and adult project leaders will assist to ensure that the experience is fun and rewarding.
For additional information about the Get Connected program visit www.passitalong.org or call 973-726-9777.
Individuals must complete registration paperwork including submitting a signed referral form. All necessary paperwork can be found on the Pass It Along website.