New Milford Youth Agency Receives $10K Grant, Reviews Teen Programs And Music Proposal

NEW MILFORD, CT — The New Milford Youth Agency Board reviewed a new $10,000 state-funded grant, discussed summer programming and considered a proposal for recurring teen music events during its July 20 meeting.

Director Jason O'Connor reported that the agency received a $10,000 Underage Nicotine Prevention Program grant through the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the Regional Behavioral Health Action Organization Western Connecticut Coalition. According to O'Connor, the funding will support nicotine prevention programming, information campaigns, needs assessments, cessation promotion, data collection and participation in regional workgroups. The agency also plans to use the grant to support substance-free teen events, peer engagement through the Student Advisory Board, focus groups, and parent and community education.

The board also discussed a proposal from a 16-year-old resident to establish a weekly live music residency at The Maxx teen center. O'Connor outlined the proposal, which would feature performances by musicians of various ages and genres. Board members discussed rental costs and safety considerations, concluding that they support helping the youth promoter develop the program while recommending that security be provided at each event by the promoter.

O'Connor said the agency's fiscal year 2025-26 budget ended June 30 and that both The Maxx and the child care program finished the year with gross profits after expenses. No report was presented on the fiscal year 2026-27 budget because the new fiscal year began July 1.

Staff also highlighted several ongoing summer programs. O'Connor reported that the "Nature Unplugged" program continues through Aug. 19 with outdoor excursions for middle and high school students that incorporate social-emotional programming. The "Summer Thursdays" program is underway with arts, crafts, games and volunteer-led activities, while the agency's summer child care program is continuing through the season.

Staff also reported that Teen Band Night held July 11 featuring Pentamore was successful and that additional Teen Band Nights are planned at The Maxx. The board also received updates on youth counseling services, diversion programs, volunteer activities, neurodiversity programming, college and career readiness initiatives, Buddy Up and before- and after-school programs. According to the report, the agency's before- and after-school program is fully enrolled with waiting lists at Northville Elementary School and Sarah Noble Intermediate School and limited openings remaining at Hill & Plain Elementary School and Schaghticoke Middle School.

Board member Ginny Landgrebe also reported on school culture within New Milford Public Schools and noted that Jennifer Powers became principal of Schaghticoke Middle School on July 1.