Category: News

Welcome to the team, Sevan!

We are thrilled to welcome Sevan Bussell to our team as the new Spokane coach-trainer. Sevan (they/them) has been a youth worker for the last eight years, and a public speaker/workshop facilitator for the last twelve years. Their passion is creating and supporting accessible and equitable spaces for people to learn and thrive. They really enjoy creating educational opportunities for all ages and developmental levels of people. When not working they are spending time with their wife, dog, and cats. They enjoy sewing clothing and quilting as well as assorted other crafts. They enjoy tending their house plants as well … [ ]

Students get an up close look into the judicial system

By Brianna Kirschenbaum

Originally created for teachers, Judges in the Classroom is now open to youth development programs. Created by The Washington Courts, Case Method Institute, and Harvard Business School Professor David Moss this program provides up-to-date, free, curriculum-aligned, K-12 lesson plans for judges to present at your site any time during the year (currently through Zoom). The lessons are interactive and provide students with a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about the legal and judicial systems as well as the basic concept of fairness. Lesson plans and supporting materials are free and are easily accessible to download.  High-quality civic education is crucial in equipping youth with the knowledge necessary for meaningful community … [ ]

King County Best Starts for Kids quality out-of-school time initiative extended for fourth year

By School's Out Washington

The Out-of-School Time Initiative, a part of King County Best Starts for Kids, began in 2018 and was slated to provide youth program providers with funding and quality improvement support through 2020. The initiative is designed to increase access to high quality and culturally relevant summer and afterschool programming for elementary and middle school youth. In total, $8.3 million was distributed to 12 People-of-Color-Led organizations and 7 Place-Based Partnerships (representing 26 organizations). The cohort represents dynamic, engaging youth development work and has fostered a richer landscape of services across King County In January of last year, the SOWA Best Starts team was gearing up to enter the final assessment season, collecting data on programs’ gains, and planning to close out the inaugural cycle with a bang. When COVID hit, communities across the county (and the world) scrambled to support each … [ ]

$9.4 million awarded to 421 youth development organizations across Washington state

By Adriana Zazula

On November 5, $9.4 million was awarded to 421 youth development organizations. Awards were distributed across all areas of the state with a focus on organizations most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and which support priority populations (BIPOC, LGBTQ, migrant/immigrant, youth with disabilities and youth in poverty, among others).  Awards range from $10,000 to $50,000 and will be distributed between mid-November and December 15, 2020.  About the Fund The Washington Youth Development Nonprofit Relief Fund wasmade possible by the CARES Act(Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act)and is being implemented by the Washington State Department of Commerce and School’s Out Washington.  This one-time investment addresses the financial … [ ]

Introducing Bridge closing keynote speaker Shontina Vernon

By Jimena Quiroga Hopkins, Thrive Paradigm

Young people play a critical role in shaping the world and fostering positive change in society. This means young people using their voice and agency to contribute to shape the narrative of what is just. Our closing keynote speaker at this year’s Bridge Conference understands this well.  Through her own story, which builds upon the power of intergenerational relationships, experiences with the juvenile justice system, and artistic talents that come to life as a theater artist, filmmaker, musician, and educator, Shontina Vernon has built a body of work grounded in telling the stories and elevating the voices of those most impacted … [ ]