Youth Services

Youth Services addresses the needs of the entire family with the many programs that are offered. All Youth Services programs are designed to foster a connection with home, school and community. Our target population include all children from 0 to 18, and their families, who are residents of Portland.

The following programs are made possible under the guidance of quality leaders and staff. Funding for our programs comes from grants as well as a financial commitment from the Town of Portland. Local businesses and private citizens also play an important role with their donations. Youth services is now located at 265 Main Street, next to the police station.

Portland Youth Services Mission Statement

Portland Youth Services is committed to the development of a coordinated system of services and programs for youth and their families in the Town of Portland. These offerings foster positive youth development, assist in social and emotional growth and strive to prevent substance abuse and anti-social behavior. The YSB provides educational and positive youth development programs which support and promote healthy children, youth, parents and families.

Program Applications

Director: Mary Pont
860.342.6758
Fax# (860)342-6764
email: mpont@portlandct.org

Prevention Coordinator: Peggy Chesanek
860.342.6758
e-mail as pchesanek@portlandct.org

Family Therapist:
Chris Napolitano, MS, LMFT
860.342.6716
(call for appointment)

Our Target Areas

Youth Development/Asset Building

Youth Development/Asset Building

  • After School Programs
  • Violence and Substance Abuse Programs in and out of school
  • Youth Employment/Life Skills Program
  • Community Service
  • Teenage Youth Commission
   |    Juvenile Justice

Juvenile Justice

  • Court Ordered Community Service
  • Diversion Programs/Juvenile Review Board (partnered with Portland Police)
   |    Mental Health Services

Mental Health Services

  • Counseling for Children & Families
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Information and Referrals

Child Welfare

Child Welfare

  • Holiday Giving Programs
  • Social Service Activities
   |    Parent Education

Parent Education

  • Parent/Child Weekly Playgroup
  • Parent Educational Workshops
   |    Community Outreach/Asset Building

Community Outreach/Asset Building

  • Family Events/Family Day
  • Coordinating with other town agencies

Our main goal is to enrich our Portland families and join other towns in Middlesex County as well as across the nation in building our communities assets. The end result our local youth will develop the skills to be a "Healthy Community, Health Youth" model.