Submitted by Allison Behnke, HKYFS
(August 31, 2024) — On August 25, 2024, twenty-eight Haddam-Killingworth youth prepared for the upcoming school year at the Sixth Annual Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services Free Haircut Event.
HKYFS extends sincere thanks and gratitude to Dillon Zak, an HKHS graduate and owner of Glenwood Barber Shop, for bringing this event back for the sixth year! Dillon and two other talented barbers offered free haircuts for students (photo above), helping them look and feel their best as they return to school. Their generosity of skill, talent and time demonstrates a spirit of community that inspires us all!
We also want share our gratitude with the many local churches, community groups, and individuals who donated to our annual School Supply Program. With their generosity and support, we were able to ensure that forty-four students started their school year prepared and confident!
HKYFS is thrilled to share upcoming programs and initiatives this September:
Protect Your Game: September 10, 2024
Parents of all ages are invited to attend a wonderful one hour Zoom presentation with nationally recognized Substance Free Athletics. You will come away with the real science and impact of substances on our kids’ athletics and well-being, as well as resources and tools to engage your child in these conversations. This HK specific workshop is important for parents of children of all ages. Email preventioncoordinator@hkyfs.org for Zoom Link.
New Mentor Training – September 11, 2024
Consider joining this group of volunteers who are making a difference! We are excited to offer New Mentor Training on September 11, 2024 as part of our HK Mentoring Program. Our Mentor Program pairs adults from the community with HK students in grades 2-8 to meet for an hour once a week during the school year. This training session is designed to equip new mentors with the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.
Ignite and Spark Youth Clubs- Starting in September
Spark is our in-school club giving Middle School students the opportunity to start the conversation about prevention! Students have the opportunity to implement change among their peers and community while having meaningful conversations about mental health, community issues, substance prevention and more. Participants will engage in a variety of fun activities, discussions, and community events.
Ignite is our High School Youth Coalition dedicated to the promotion of positive mental health, prevention, and leadership. Ignite gives participants the opportunity to recognize needs and connect with other groups to promote positive mental health and address issues, such as substance abuse. Ignite gives youth a platform to identify issues and take action to create positive change.
Please contact Kyana Anderson, Prevention Coordinator, preventioncoordinator@hkyfs.org if your student would like to become involved.
HKYFS is offering a variety of positive youth development programs geared to all ages and interests including: Craft and Chill, Pony Kids, Be You at the Barn, Girls with a Purpose, and more.
Check out our website www.hkyfs.org for more information and to sign up for our newsletter with up-to-date information about all of our events, programs and opportunities.
Haircut Day Photo by Jennifer Favalora
