Family Based Services
In collaboration with the Old Colony YMCA resources and the network of human service agencies in the Greater Brockton and Plymouth areas, the Family Based Services Program is dedicated to providing family stabilization and support through effective advocacy. The program addresses the individual needs of each child and the needs of the family.
Youth Advocates serve as positive role models while developing each youth's character building skills and assets using a variety of approaches: through one-to-one contacts, home based services or group and recreational events.
By building on strengths of the child and family, the Family Based Services Program empowers the family to connect with community resources in order to complete the continuum of care developed for the stabilization of the child in the family setting.
The Old Colony YMCA has provided intervention services for Department of Children and Families (DCF and formerly known as DSS) and Department of Mental Health (DMH) adolescent clients through an intensive mentoring model in the Brockton area since 1982. Youth Advocates collaborate with other community services to support parents and families by teaching responsibility, problem solving and decision-making skills, while emphasizing the importance of client accountability.
Youth Advocates work directly with adolescent clients and their families, identifying needs and developing intervention strategies. The Advocates assist the clients with their academic progress (i.e. arranging homework assistance, communicating with guidance counselors, exploring additional resources), as well as assisting clients with accessing extra-curricular activities and part-time employment opportunities (i.e. Brockton Boys and Girls Club, BAWIB, Fruth Teen Center operated by the Boys & Girls Club and the Old Colony YMCA). Advocates also work with clients to develop skills to improve their day-to-day functioning- anger management strategies, stress management, communication skill building. Advocates frequently serve as mediators with the clients and their parents/guardians, helping the family clarify issues and strategize around appropriate solutions. When the situation warrants, Youth Advocates are also prepared to work with the client's probation officer to address any court related issues.
The Family Based Services Program is based out of the Y's STARR program (first floor) at 917R Montello St. in Brockton.
For more information, please contact
Old Colony YMCA
Family Based Services Program
C/O Brockton STARR
917R Montello Street
Brockton, MA 02301
Timothy Lynch, Executive Director
(508) 427-4383
e-mail
