Pawtucket – Saturday, Pawtucket’s Youth Commission kicked off their work with an inaugural meeting at the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket’s Teen Center. The teens were welcomed by Mayor Donald Grebien, Jim Hoyt, Club Chief Executive Officer, Mark Wildenhain, City Councilman, Michael Araujo, School Committee Member, Lee Rabbitt, Assistant School Superintendent, Lisa Fonseca, Parent and Community School Coordinator, and Stephen Larbi, Club Teen Program Director.

“I’m thrilled to be kicking off the work of the City’s Youth Commission. It’s so important for our youth to be engaged with their community and be able to have a voice and a seat at the table,” said Grebien. “I know they will accomplish great things.”

Twenty high school students representing Shea and Tolman High Schools, and the Jaqueline M. Walsh Performance Arts School were chosen to be Youth Commissioners based on their current academic and community engagement, as well as their thoughts on leadership, responsibility, integrity, community and teamwork. The Youth Commission will foster a connection between youth and city government. Participation will also provide members with an opportunity to develop leadership skills, such as public speaking, managing group dynamics with youth from various backgrounds, teaching and practicing conflict resolution, and engaging with the local community.

The Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket is supporting this work through the Club’s Teen Program Director, Stephen Larbi, serving as the Youth Commission Advisor. Additionally, the Club will be the host site for Commission meetings.

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January 23, 2017

Lauren Greene 

401-728-0500 ext. 358