Youth & Recreation - Town of Amherst

Town of Amherst Youth & Recreation DepartmentGeneral InformationMary-Diana Pouli,Executive DirectorAmherst Youth & RecreationAdministrative Offices - Northtown Center at Amherst1615 Amherst Manor Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221For information regarding registration, programs, facilities, rentalsand ID cards please call: 716-631-7132Hours of OperationHours (September 3rd through December 30th):Monday through Friday 8:45-5:30 pmSaturday 10:30-1:30Office closed: 9/2, 10/14, 11/5, 11/11, 11/28, 11/29,12/24, 12/25 and 1/1Office Hours 12/31 - 9:00-12:00(Hours subject to change)Town of Amherst Elected OfficialsBarry A. Weinstein, SupervisorGuy R. Marlette, Deputy Supervisor-Youth & Recreation LiaisonRichard “Jay” Anderson, Council MemberMark A. Manna, Council MemberBarbara S. Nuchereno, Council MemberSteven D. Sanders, Council MemberTown of Amherst Youth BoardJerry Sheldon, ChairpersonDominic Vivolo, Vice ChairpersonMyles Abbott, Ismahan Abdallah, Ali Ahmed, Lori Angiel,Art Benton, Bob Coniglio, JC Hogarth de la Plante, Sheila Gillert,Shanon Jacobs, Marianne Jasen, Michael Khan, Robin Klein,Daniel Liebel, Bhaskar Roberts, Griffin Schultz, Bobbi Sedor,Suzie Rivo Solender, M DeLynn WalkerEx-Officio:Patricia MaceyTown of Amherst Recreation CommissionRobert J. Schreck, ChairpersonMark Cavagnaro, Vice ChairpersonSunil Bakshi, Theresa Clair, Thomas Schratz, Gary Witter,April ZolczerVolunteer OpportunitiesOur youth and recreation programs greatly rely on the effortsand contributions of citizen volunteers. Many different volunteeropportunities are available, and may be tailored to individual needs.To find out how you can serve on the Youth Board or RecreationCommission, contact:Mary-Diana Pouli, Executive Director1615 Amherst Manor Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221716-631-7132To find out how you might be able to assist in our after schoolchild care, help plan special events, or perform other volunteerfunctions, please contact:Antonella Covelli, Director of Volunteers1615 Amherst Manor Drive, Amherst, NY716-631-7210 ext. 7544Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and meet othereligibility requirements.Resident Photo ID Card InformationA valid Town of Amherst Resident Photo ID card is needed toregister for programs and services and to receive residentdiscounts for open skate sessions. Resident ID cards also allowfor unlimited free use of the Clearfield and North Forest poolsduring the summer months. Resident Photo ID cards are valid forone calendar year.ID cards may only be purchased at the Youth & RecreationDepartment office. Cost is $5.00 per person; cash, check or charge.Proof of residency and a new photo (taken at time of ID cardregistration) is required for new and renewal cards.Proof of residency for Adults:1. Driver’s license or a valid non-driver IDProof of residency for Children:1.Parent’s driver’s license or valid non-driver ID AND2. Child’s birth certificate or 2012 ID cardRefunds & FeesPlease note that no refunds will be given for registration fees orprograms. Programs will be cancelled due to inclement weatherand on all major holidays.A Message to Parents -Age RequirementUnless stipulated in the program description, age requirementsare as of the date of the first class. All age requirements are set tobenefit the children and make instruction more consistent for theprogram instructor. In some instances, requirements are set forthe child’s safety.Special NeedsThe Town of Amherst encourages individuals with disabilities toregister for general youth and recreation programs. If you requireassistance or have special needs, let us know. The Youth &Recreation Department will make reasonable accommodations tofacilitate the participation of an individual with a disability in any ofour programs. Please advise our staff at the time of registration.Telephone NumbersYouth & Recreation Office 716-631-7132Youth & Recreation Office – Fax 716-626-9087Northtown Center at Amherst Ice Facility 716-631-7555Audubon Golf Course 716-631-7139Oakwood Golf Course 716-631-1421Audubon Par 3 716-631-7124Frequently Requested NumbersAmherst Youth Hockey 716-631-0850Amherst Skating Club 716-634-3887Amherst Soccer Association 716-580-34682 www.amherstyouthandrec.org Fall/Winter 2013-2014

Table of ContentsYouth SportsArchery.............................................................................................. 4Beginning Tennis.............................................................................. 4Tiny Tots Tennis (3-5 yr. olds)......................................................... 5Floor Hockey (9-12 yr. olds)............................................................ 5Toddler Open Gym........................................................................... 5Preschool ProgramsFamily Room Program..................................................................... 6Tiny Tots Tennis................................................................................ 5Toddler Open Gym........................................................................... 5Toddler Time Preschool (3-4 yr. olds).........................................12Adult SportsAdult Archery.................................................................................... 7Men’s Basketball............................................................................. 7Adult Volleyball................................................................................. 8Swim Programs................................................................................ 8Adult Morning Tennis...................................................................... 9Adult Tennis Lessons...................................................................... 9Free Play Adult Tennis..................................................................10Team Tennis (High School players)............................................10Adult Coed Kickball.......................................................................10AquaticsSwim Programs................................................................................ 8Camp & Child Care ProgramsAfter School Child Care................................................................12Winter Recess Camp....................................................................13Mid-Winter & Spring Recess Camp...........................................14Ice Facility Programs – Northtown Center at AmherstPublic Skate....................................................................................15Rental Information.........................................................................15Registration Information/Registration Form............................11, BackSpecial Activities & EventsFall Indoor Concert & Dance.......................................................16Halloween Fun on the Boo-Levard.............................................16Holiday Drop-n-Shop....................................................................16Valentine Variety............................................................................17Middle School Activity Nights....................................................... 3Amherst Teen Idol..........................................................................17Bones Day.......................................................................................17Special NeedsIndividuals with Disabilities Adult Program..............................15Teen ProgramsAmherst Youth Consortium..........................................................18Amherst Youth Engaged in Service (YES).................................18YouthWork$.....................................................................................18Youth Services and Special InterestAmherst Task Force for Healthy Community/Healthy Youth....19Be-A-Friend Program....................................................................18Eggertsville Programs...................................................................18Family & Parent Developmental Asset Workshops................19Family Assessment & Support Team.........................................18SafeHomes Programs...................................................................18School Intervention & Family Service Program......................18Search Institute Survey & Developmental Assets..................19Speaker’s Bureau..........................................................................18Volunteer Opportunities.................................................................. 2Warm Clothing Project for Children...........................................19Amherst, NYHelp KidsGrow HealthyPromoteDevelopmental AssetsAssets are building blocks that help build youth into caring, responsible, healthypeople. The more assets they collect, the better chance they have to succeed!How many of the following assets do young people that you know have?1. Feel loved and supported by family.2. Can communicate positively and talk openly with parents.3. Has 3 other positive adults (besides parents) in their life.4. Has neighbors that care about them.5. School provides a caring, encouraging environment.6. Parents are involved with school.7. Adults value youth in community.8. Young person is given useful roles in the community.9. Young person helps others 1 hour a week or more.10. Feels safe at school, home and in their neighborhood.11. Family has clear rules and consequences and knows whereabouts at all times.12. School provides clear rules and boundaries.13. Neighbors watch and report young people’s behavior.14. Adults act in a positive and responsible way.15. Young person’s friends act in a responsible way.16. Parents encourage them to do well.17. Spends 3 hours a week or more in music, arts, or theatre.18. Spends 3 hours a week or more in sports, clubs or organizations.19. Spends 1 hour per week or more in religious activities.20. Only hangs out with friends with nothing to do two or less nights a week.21. Wants to do well in school.22. Participates in class.23. Does one hour or more of homework each day.24. Cares about his/her school.25. Reads for fun 3 or more hours per week.26. Places high value on helping other people.27. Believes in equality and helping hungry/needy.28. Acts on convictions and stands up for his or her beliefs.29. Tells the truth even though it may not be easy.30. Accepts and takes personal responsibility.31. Believes it is important to be drug free and not sexually active.32. Knows how to plan ahead and make choices.33. Shows empathy, sensitivity and respects the feelings of others.34. Knows about and feels okay with other cultures.35. Resists negative peer pressure and dangerous situations.36. Resolves problems without use of violence.37. Feels he or she has control over what happens to them.38. High sense of self-esteem.39. Feels that they have a purpose in life.40. Optimistic about his or her personal future and plans.Amherst Youth & Recreation has many resources on the Asset Building framework.If you wouldAttentionlike more informationmiddleon assetschoolbuilding,students!call our office! 716-631-7132Middle School Student Nights!FREE! 7 pm - 9:30 pm!Saturday September 21 stSaturday, October 19 th(Annual Halloween costume contest night!)Saturday, November 9 thSaturday, December 7 thMiddle School Student Nights!In partnershipFREE!with7thepmAmherst- 9:30Youth &pm!RecreationDepartment, the Amherst Youth FoundationSaturday, September 21offers FREE monthly middle • Saturday, October 19school events!thSaturday, November 9Doors open at 7pm with pickup th • Saturday, December 7at 9:30pm. We have pingpong,In partnership free wi-fi, with crafts, the Amherst four-square, Youth & Recreation low-priced Department, snack bar, thethair Amherst hockey, Youth mini-gym Foundation basketball, offers FREE monthly knee-hockey, middle school special events!Doors open at 7pm with events pickup and at 9:30pm. more! We have pingpong, freewi-fi, crafts, four-square, low-priced snack bar, air hockey, mini-gymMore basketball, info at knee-hockey, www.AmherstYouthFoundation.org special events and more! More info or atwww.AmherstYouthFoundation.org call the AYF office or at call 633-6773 the AYF office at 633-6773.Amherst Amherst Youth Foundation5005 5005 Sheridan DriveWilliamsville Williamsville NY NY 14221Middle school studentsMiddle school only students please! only please!716-631-7132 www.amherstyouthandrec.org 3

Description: Beginning Tennis for 3-5 year olds. Sessionsare fun, active and interesting. Learn tennisrelatedmotor skills and fundamentals oftennis in a child friendly environment.Site:Clearfield Community Center - Large GymDays:Monday/WednesdaysTime:12:30 pm - 1:00 pm1:00 pm - 1:30 pmFee: $20.00Youth SportsTiny Tots Tennis – 3 to 5 year oldsYouth Floor Hockey - Ages 9 - 12Schedule: Session #1September 16 - October 9Session #2October 21 - November 13Special Notes: Program will be cancelled on major holidaysand when Williamsville Schools are closeddue to inclement weather.Registration Fee: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Angelo Lorenzo631-7132 ext. 7517alorenzo@amherst.ny.usDescription: Indoor, pick-up style floor hockey for childrenages 9-12. Daily activities may includea short practice/skill development drill,followed by a friendly game.Site:Clearfield Community Center - Small GymDays:MondaysFee:$20.00 per sessionAges/Times: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pmSchedule: Session #1September 16 - October 21(no class on 10/14/13)Session #2October 28 - December 9(no class on 11/11/13)Session #3December 16 - February 10(no class on 12/23/13, 12/30/13 or 1/20/14)Required Equipment: Participants must use a stick with a plasticblade only, eye protection (goggles, or ahelmet with a face shield or cage), handprotection (gloves), and dry sneakers.Other Equipment: Mouth guards and shin guards arerecommended. Basic goalie equipment willbe provided.Special Notes: Please note that this program will be closedon major holidays and whenever schoolsare closed due to weather. Becausespace is limited, preregistration is required.Registrations will not be accepted on-site.Registration Fee: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Brian Ignaszak631-7132 ext. 7519bignaszak@amherst.ny.usToddler Open GymDescription: This is an open gym/free play program forchildren ages 1-5 years old. Parents arerequired to stay with their children.Site:Clearfield Community Center - Small GymDays:FridaysTime:9:30-11:30 amFee: $20.00Schedule: Session #1September 20 - December 20(no program on 11/29)Special Notes:Contact Person:This program is closed on all major holidaysand when Williamsville Schools are closeddue to inclement weather. Everyone mustwear sneakers in the gym.Laura Ehrenreich631-7132 ext 7522lmehrenreich@amherst.ny.us716-631-7132 www.amherstyouthandrec.org 5

Adult SportsAdult VolleyballDescription:Site:Days:Time:Fee:Indoor, pick-up style volleyball for ages16 and up – Amherst residents and nonresidentswelcome. Daily activities mayinclude a short practice/skill developmentdrill, followed by a few friendly games. Allability levels are welcome.Clearfield Community CenterSmall GymnasiumWednesdays8:00 pm - 9:30 pm$25.00 per session for residents, additional$25 fee for non-residents (first priority givento Amherst residents).Schedule: Session #1September 18 - October 23Session #2October 30 - December 4Session #3December 11 - January 29(no class on 12/25/13 or 1/1/14)Special Notes: Please note that this program will be closedon major holidays and whenever schoolsare closed due to weather. Because spaceis limited, preregistration is required.Registrations will not be accepted on-site.Required Equipment: Dry SneakersOther Equipment: Volleyball knee pads are stronglyrecommended.Registration: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Brian Ignaszak631-7132 ext. 7519bignaszak@amherst.ny.usAll swim programs are to be announced. Please continue to checkback for current information by calling our office (631-7132) orvisiting our website, www.amherstyouthandrec.org• Family Swim• Swim Lessons• Water Exercise and Lap Swim• Adult and Kids with DisabilitiesSwim ProgramsContact Person:Beth K. Walenka631-7132 ext 7516bwalenka@amherst.ny.us8 www.amherstyouthandrec.org Fall/Winter 2013-2014

Description: Tennis drills and games for adults (ages 18+)to include the following skills: Forehand,Backhand, Volley, and Serve.Site:Clearfield Community CenterDays:Tuesday/FridayTime:10:00 am - 12:00 pmFee: $25.00Schedule: Session #1September 17th - October 29thSession #2November 8th - December 20th(no program on 11/29)Required Equipment: Sneakers, Tennis Racquet, new can of tennisballs on first day.Special Notes: Program will be cancelled on major holidaysor when the Williamsville Schools are closeddue to inclement weather.Registration: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Angelo Lorenzo631-7132 ext. 7517alorenzo@amherst.ny.usAdult SportsAdult Morning TennisAdult Tennis LessonsDescription: Tennis instruction for adults (ages 18+)Site:Ellicott Creek Trailway Courts/Clearfield Community Center - Large GymDays:WednesdayTime:7:00 - 8:00 Beginners8:00 - 9:00 Intermediate/AdvancedFee: $25.00Schedule: Session #1September 18th - November 6thRequired Equipment: Sneakers, Tennis Racquet, new can of tennisballs on first day.Special Notes: Program will be cancelled on major holidaysor when the Williamsville Schools are closeddue to inclement weather.Registration: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Angelo Lorenzo631-7132 ext. 7517alorenzo@amherst.ny.us716-631-7132 www.amherstyouthandrec.org 9

Description: For the Adult player (18+) looking to playwith other players. Doubles/Singles/GroupgamesSite:Trailway Courts/Clearfield Community CenterDays:ThursdayTime:7:30 pm - 9:00 pmFee: $25.00Adult SportsFree Play Adult TennisTeen Team TennisSchedule: Session #1September 12 - October 24Session #2October 31 - December 19Required Equipment: Sneakers, Tennis Racquet, new can oftennis balls.Registration: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Angelo Lorenzo631-7132 ext. 7517alorenzo@amherst.ny.usDescription: Practice sessions and matches for highschool tennis players. Open to J.V. andVarsity level players.Site: Clearfield Community Center -Large GymnasiumDays:MondaysTime:4:30 pm - 6:00 pmFee: $20.00Schedule: Session #1September 16 - November 4Required Equipment: Sneakers, Tennis Racquet,new can of tennis ballsSpecial Notes: Program will be cancelled on major holidaysor when the Williamsville Schools areclosed due to inclement weather.Registration: Please see page 11 or back pageContact Person: Angelo Lorenzo631-7132 ext. 7517alorenzo@amherst.ny.usDescription: Town of Amherst Youth and Recreation isaccepting registrations for its WednesdayAdult Coed Kickball Leagues ages 18 andover. This is one of the fastest growingadult sport leagues in America. Anyonecan play kickball from the novice to theextreme diehards. You don’t have to bean athlete to play. Great for improvingyour fitness, meeting new people andinteracting socially with others. Teams willconsist of 10 to 18 players; two of whichmust be Town of Amherst residents. Everyteam must also have a minimum of fourfemales playing and everyone presentkicks in the kicking order. League ruleswill be made available to each teammanager or are available by visitingwww.amherstyouthandrec.orgSite:Northtown Center at AmherstDay:WednesdaysTime:6:30 pm/ 7:30 pm/ 8:30 pmFee:$200 per team or $20.00 per individualSchedule: September 18 - November 13Adult Coed KickballRegistration:To register please go online towww.amherstyouthandrec.org orsee page 11 or back page.Contact Person: Laura Ehrenreich631-7132 ext 7522lmehrenreich@amherst.ny.usNote for team registration, only team captain/manager toregister, team members will be added by the office.10 www.amherstyouthandrec.org Fall/Winter 2013-2014

Mid-Winter & SpringRecess Camp Program 2014PROGRAM INFORMATIONMid-Winter and Spring Recess Camp Programs for youthages 5-11.Our camps offer fun-filled educational activities, field trips,guest speakers, along with arts and crafts. Activities aredesigned to enhance each child’s social, emotional andphysical growth and development. Children are encouragedto develop new skills in a safe atmosphere of fun and fair play.The directors of our programs are experienced and qualified.They are assisted by counselors who have been selectedfor their skills, personality and experience in working withchildren. Programs operate weekly, Monday through Friday,from 8:00a.m.-5:30p.m. at the sites noted.An Early Bird Program is offered from 7:30-8:00a.m., availablefor an additional fee of $1 per day, per child (resident); $5non-resident. An Extended Day Program is offered from 5:30-6:00p.m.; available for an additional fee of $1 per day per child(resident); $5 non-resident.Lunches and beverages are required to be brought from home.For further information, call the administrative office at631-7132. Transportation to and from Recess Programsmust be provided by the parent/guardian.MID-WINTER RECESS CAMPFebruary 18-21, 2014LOCATIONS:Williamsville Youth Center5005 Sheridan DriveWilliamsville, NY 14221Amherst Youth & Family Center(at the Northtown Center at Amherst)1615 Amherst Manor Dr.Williamsville, NY 14221SPRING RECESS CAMPApril 14-17, 21, 2014April 22, 2014(Sweet Home Central School District only)LOCATIONS:Williamsville Youth Center5005 Sheridan DriveWilliamsville, NY 14221Amherst Youth & Family Center(at the Northtown Center at Amherst)1615 Amherst Manor Dr.Williamsville, NY 14221Child Care ProgramsMID-WINTER & SPRING RECESS CAMPS – 2014REGISTRATION INFORMATIONFor Application Forms Visit:www.amherstyouthandrec.orgRegistration Dates: December 2– 6, 2013REGISTRATION LOCATION:Amherst Youth & Recreation Program Office1615 Amherst Manor DrivePhone: 631-7132RESIDENT FEESREGISTRATION FEE*:(Non-refundable): $15 per familyEARLY BIRD/EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM:$1 per child per optionNon-Resident Fees:Non-residents are students who live outside Amherst town boundariesyet attend school within the Sweet Home, Williamsville or Amherst schooldistricts.REGISTRATION FEE:*(Non-refundable): $25 per familyDAILY CAMP FEE: $40 per childEARLY BIRD/EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM: $5 per child per option*First priority is given to Town of Amherst residentsMid-Winter & SpringRecess ProgramAmherst Resident FeesSliding Scale Fee - per dayINCOME 1 child 2 children 3 children 4 children STEP$0 - $29,999 $17.00 $30.00 $45.00 $60.00 A$30,000 - $49,999 $25.00 $45.00 $65.00 $85.00 B$50,000 - $74,999 $30.00 $55.00 $80.00 $100.00 C$75,000 and over $36.00 $70.00 $100.00 $130.00 DPLEASE NOTE: All fees must be paid on or before February 1, 2014 for yourchild to attend the Mid-Winter and/or Spring Recess program.A $15 non-refundable registration fee is required for each family. Fees arecharged daily according to a sliding scale, based upon the family’s mostrecent federal tax return (1040). Family applies to both husband and wife,even if filing separately.Please note for Registration:• A copy of your most recent tax form (1040) is required as proof of incomeand residency.• All participants must complete a registration form.• This program is regulated by the New York State Office of Children& Family ServicesFor further information, call the administrative office at 631-7132.Transportation to and from Mid-Winter and Spring Recess Campmust be provided by the parent/guardian.14 www.amherstyouthandrec.org Fall/Winter 2013-2014

Special Activities & EventsValentine VarietyOn February 1, 2014 we will be makinga variety of Valentine’s Day crafts.Come join us from 11:00 am to 2:00 pmat Clearfield Community Center tomake your own Valentines!No pre-registration required.Amherst’s Teen IdolCalling all youth soloists ages 12 to 20! Openauditions for “Amherst Teen Idol” will be held onSaturday, February 1, 2014 from noon-2:00 pm atthe Boulevard Mall Food Court. Contest is open toall youth vocalists. Contestants must be preparedto perform on stage up to three minutes in length.Finalists will be chosen to compete in a final roundthat will take place in March.For further information, call 631-7132.WinterfestSave The Date!Sat., Jan. 25thNATURE PROGRAMMINGBONES DAYNature Programming“Bones Day”The Town of Amherst Recreation Department in partnership withNew York State Parks Department and the NYSDEC ReinsteinWoods Environmental Education Center along with Past andPresent: Science and Nature Store would like to cordially inviteyou to attend BONES DAY (no bones about it). This event willprovide an opportunity to experience a fine exhibit of mammalbones, skull, fossils and furs as well as an opportunity toparticipate in some hands-on activities and crafts.When: Saturday October 5thWhere: Noll Nature Center at Glen Parkon Glen Avenue between Cayuga Road and Mill StreetTime: 10 am-4 pmCost: Free!716-631-7132 www.amherstyouthandrec.org 17

Special Interest Programs/ServicesTeen OpportunitiesAmherst Youth ConsortiumAmherst Youth Consortium members arehigh school and college students who havepledged to be nicotine, alcohol and otherdrug-free and to be visible role modelswho live healthy lifestyles. Their workincludes presenting information, facilitatingdiscussions, and engaging children, youth and adultsin activities which promote wellness, asset buildingand good decision making. Kathy Mobarak-Millercoordinates the efforts of the group. She can be reachedat 631-7132.Amherst Youth Engaged in Service(YES) ProgramThe Youth Engaged in Service (YES) VolunteerProgram provides the opportunity for students ages 12-21to contribute and participate in the community. Membersprovide service by direct interaction with children, seniorcitizens, low-income families, persons with a disability,and charitable organizations. To become a member, or forfurther information, please contact Antonella Covelli, YESProgram Director at 631-7210.Youth Work$Youth Work$ is a year-round extra jobservice which links Amherst residentsin need of assistance in, or around theirhomes, with Amherst youth ages 12-19years who are a part of the program.Residents in need of assistance with jobs such asgardening, light housework, child care, leaf raking,shoveling snow or other jobs should contact YouthWork$to discuss your needs and ways that we may assist you.Youth interested in joining YouthWork$ should contactour office for an application or visit www.amherst.ny.uskeyword: youthworks. For detailed information, callMarcia Wrazen at 631-7132.FAMILY &COMMUNITY SERVICESSafeHomes ProgramSafeHomes is a parent pledge program designed to providea safe, healthy environment for young people.Members are provided with a Parent Network Newsletterthree times per year and are offered free parentingworkshops throughout the year. For more information or tobecome part of the Network, call Sally Yageric at ECCPASA,831-2298.Eggertsville ProgramsPrograms for children and youth in the Eggertsville areaof Amherst are offered in conjunction with the Boys &Girls clubs of Buffalo and currently include programs forelementary, middle and high school youth. Contact the Boysand Girls Club at 446-9170 for more information.Be-A-Friend ProgramThis program matches Amherst youth with caring adultsin a big brother/big sister model. Contact Cindy Smith at631-7132.School Intervention & Family Service ProgramThe School Intervention Service (SIS) is an integratedservice which serves in-school youth who are experiencingschool difficulties, youth who are in family crises, and youngpeople who have left school before graduating.The Family Service Program of Amherst is designed to helpfamilies meet the challenges of modern life.Please call the Catholic Charities Amherst Office at 839-4066to find out more.Family Assessment & Support Team (FAST)The Family Assessment & Support Team (FAST) offers avariety of services to youth and families residing in theAmherst Central School District. FAST services include, butare not limited to, family counseling, mental health counseling,after school activities, treatment for eating disorders andgambling addiction, assistance with forming a block club andfinding an apartment or securing a home loan.Youth or families living in the Amherst Central School Districtinterested in participating in the program should call KathyMobarak-Miller at 631-7132.Speaker’s BureauThe Amherst Youth & Recreation Speaker’s Bureau is oneway of keeping the community informed. Our presentationscover a wide variety of topics and there is no charge formost. To arrange for a speaker, call our office at 631-7132.18 www.amherstyouthandrec.org Fall/Winter 2013-2014

Special Interest Programs/ServicesSearch Institute Survey & Developmental AssetsThe Town of Amherst Youth & Recreation Department, working closely with the Amherst, Sweet Home and Williamsville Central School Districts, has,to date, administered several Search Institute Wellness Surveys of Student Attitudes and Behaviors. The survey results are used as a basis for longrangeprogram planning to positively impact on the lives of our community’s young people and their familiesThe research has identified 40 developmental assets, or building blocks, that enhance the health and well-being of young people and assist them inbeing successful at home, school and in the community. The more “assets” a young person has, the less risky behavior they will exhibit. Assets havebeen identified for each grouping: infants and toddlers, pre-schoolers, elementary school children and adolescents.These 40 developmental assets were initially assessed in October 1997, and most recently in 2011using the survey Search Institute Profiles of Student Life: Attitudes and Behaviors.FAMILY & PARENTDEVELOPMENTALASSET WORKSHOPSMany workshops are available focusing on theSearch Institute’s Developmental Asset WellnessFramework. Workshops include: Overviewof the Wellness Framework, “Boundaries andExpectations” and “Positive Values.” Suggestedaudience is parents, coaches, educators, youthleaders, volunteers, grandparents, advocates foryouth, congregation members, service clubs, etc.Contact Kathy Mobarak-Miller at 631-7132 forquestions, or to schedule a workshop.AMHERST TASK FORCEThe Amherst Task Force for Healthy Community•Healthy Youth isa diverse group of community leaders, educators, parents andcitizens who collaborate to support positive youth developmentefforts throughout the Town of Amherst. Our group meetsmonthly to discuss issues, make decisions and take action tosupport asset development.Warm ClothingProject for ChildrenEach winter season, Amherst Youth & Recreation partnerswith local schools and partners with individuals, families,businesses and organizations in order to provide newwarm clothing (items such as coats, boots, mittens/hatsand sweaters for students in the Town of Amherst).If your child is in need of warm clothing, please contactyour school social worker. All referrals must come throughthe schools.If you would like to “adopt” one or more children, pleasecontact Kathy Mobarak-Miller, Project Coordinator,631-7132, ext. 7523 or kmobmiller@amherst.ny.us. Itemsmust be purchased prior to December 2, 2013.Cash donations/sponsorships are gratefully accepted.The Amherst Task Force strives to strengthen relationshipswithin families, among peers, within schools and otherinstitutions and across generations in order to build a solidfoundation for youth. It really does “take a whole village toraise a child.”Our monthly meetings are open.We are responsive to input from the community.We welcome and encourage your participation.For more information, or to get involved:Thankyou!AMHERST TASK FORCEfor Healthy Community • Healthy Youthc/o Amherst Youth & Recreation • Northtown Center at Amherst1615 Amherst Manor Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221Website: www.amherst.ny.us • Keyword: Amherst Task ForcePhone: 716-631-7132 • Fax: 716-626-9087716-631-7132 www.amherstyouthandrec.org 19