|
BE THE ONE TO LISTEN TO ME is the theme that foster kids need to know that someone cares and a core mission of Youthville. Our program last Friday was Duane Ott, BRS Program Director of Youthville-Washington and Crystal Demeroutis. In the early 1920's the United Methodist Church recognized the need for a residence for homeless and abandoned children. In the 80 year old history of Youthville, it started in Washington around 4 years ago. The program specializes in foster care, parent support and residential treatment.
Youthville matches children with families near their home or origin. In many cases, senior couples are deciding to become foster parents for special needs kids. These foster parents have been very successful with the program. Youthville provides training, placement managing, troubleshooting with professional problem solvers. Crystal Demeroutis works for Youthville working with families to get their children back.
Duane Ott has worked with the Department of Social and Health Services in the past, always with foster kids. Before joining Youthville, Duane worked with a private provider. Youthville's core is in support of families involved in foster care system and families that have been referred to Child Protective Services. The program involves a comprehensive parenting program designed to prevent, reduce and treat conduct problems among children. Youthville licenses the homes at no charge to the individuals...peer support. Another part of the program is working with therapeutic foster care kids. Duane works out of the Marysville office.
|
