Association of New York State Youth Bureaus Honors Senator Young with Inaugural "Leadership in Public Policy" Award

ALBANY – The Association of New York State Youth Bureaus (ANYSYB), representing over 200 Youth Bureaus and Youth Boards and 1.5 million children, presented its inaugural “Leadership in Public Policy” award to Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-57th District), recognizing her support for Youth Bureaus and young people.

During the group’s annual Albany advocacy day, the group paused in their training to honor Senator Young’s commitment to furthering youth development and fostering good public policy that allows young people to reach their full potential.

“Youth Bureaus across the State empower young people to succeed by providing comprehensive programming that instills valuable leadership skills. The best way to foster lifelong success is through education and enrichment that begins at an early age and continues through adolescence. The end product is strong, civic-minded young people who are prepared to overcome any obstacles ahead of them,” said Senator Young.

“I am honored to receive the organization’s first-ever award, and remain a staunch advocate for good public policy that has the best interest of our young people in mind. We must do all we can to support the development of young leaders, who will help build the future of our state,” Senator Young said.

The award was presented by Dr. Anthony Evans of Portville, State Board President, and the Association’s Executive Director, Jackie Negri.

Dr. Evans, who also serves as Executive Director of the Cattaraugus County Youth Bureau, said, “As our Senator and longtime friend, Cathy Young is one who truly cares about the children and youth not only of her district but of our State. She is one who honestly believes that our Youth Bureau System is indeed ‘the cornerstone of youth development and delinquency prevention in New York State,’ and for that and her representation we are grateful and it is our honor to present the Senator with our inaugural Leadership in Public Policy Award.”

ANYSYB Executive Director Jackie Negri said, “The Association of NYS Youth Bureaus is honored to recognize Senator Young as the first recipient for Excellence in Public Policy. Senator Young’s tireless efforts and commitment to youth development for New York’s children, youth and families is exemplary. We applaud her leadership on youth development issues.”