Palm Beach County Level Up Mentoring Program has been recognized with a Best in Category for Children and Youth Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo).
The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.
Palm Beach County Youth Services Department, in partnership with the United Way of Palm Beach County’s Mentor Center and the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, launched the Level Up Enhanced Mentoring Program in 2021. This was done to offer mentoring opportunities for youth ages 11 to 19 who are involved with or at risk of entering the juvenile justice or dependency systems.
The goal is to match youth with a long-term, positive role model, make referrals to community-based services, and provide opportunities to continue education or career exploration. When a young person has a consistent supportive adult in their life, they can overcome adversity and build resiliency. Often young people involved in the dependency or delinquency system lack that supportive adult.
“Collaboration is key in providing opportunities for young people in Palm Beach County, and we are very appreciative that the NACo recognizes this unique collaboration with United Way and the Children’s Services Council,” said Tammy K. Fields, Director of Palm Beach County Youth Services.
Each year, NACo’s Achievement Awards are given in 18 categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, county administration, information technology, health, civic engagement and more. One program is selected as Best in Category in each of the categories from all the submissions from across the nation.
Launched in 1970, the program is designed to recognize innovation in county government.
“The Achievement Awards demonstrate excellence in county government and the commitment to serve our residents every day,” said NACo President Denise Winfrey. “This year’s winners represent some of the most innovative and collaborative efforts we have seen in over 50 years of presenting these awards.”
