“It’s all about preparing children for adulthood,” said Laurel T. James, Executive Director of the Tri-County Youth Services Bureau (TCYSB). The organization’s 36-year history began in the early 1970s as a direct result of the civil rights movement. The federal government dedicated funds for a nationwide network of bureaus to aid in the prevention and intervention of juvenile delinquents. “Back then,” stated James, “it was strictly counseling services for youths in trouble.”

 

 Today, TCYSB is one of 20 such youth service bureaus across the state with a focus on delinquency prevention and emotional development for children. The bureau has multiple programs designed to keep children developing toward productive lives and away from trouble.

 “Every child is born with 40 assets that need to be developed and nurtured from birth,” said James. “We teach children and caregivers alike, how to develop a child’s assets.”

 The program teaches children to be courteous to family, invite caring adults into their lives to help them pursue their passions. The staffers then teach children through a series of activities designed to empower young people as active participants in developmental events while encouraging children and teens to engange in community service efforts. In addition to the general asset development, TCYSB provides programs to help children to develop leadership skills, while defining boundaries and behavioral expections.

 Throughout the program children are taught constructive use of their time and encourages them to enjoy the learning experience. “We have many programs that are designed to develop children’s assets,” stated James. She indicated that every program is design to reinforce the development of the 40 assets imbued in every child.

 
Laurel James

 TCYSB’s 42 staffers cover Charles, St. Mary’s, and Calvert Counties as best they can, but as stated by James, “Each county has a separate contract with us and the activities available are limited to the contract between that county and TCYSB.” James also stated that TCYSB’s mandate ensures that all children and families in need are helped regardless of their ability to pay the nominal fees. “There is never any charge for children sent to us through the court system,” said James.

 The three county Departments of Juvenile Services provide a great deal of funding to TCYSB and all children ordered to under go development training and counseling by the courts are treated for free. To learn more about the bureau and its many services available call 301-843-2960 or visit their website, www.tcysb.org.