Grafton Youth Honored For Work With Developmentally Disabled

Press release submitted by the office of Gov. Deval Patrick.

The Patrick-Murray Administration today has honored participants in the Department of Developmental Services' (DDS) Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP). More than 200 young people were recognized at the State House event Aug. 9 for their participation in the UYCP this summer, working with individuals with developmental disabilities at state-operated programs and at developmental centers throughout the state.

“I am impressed by the efforts of these amazing young leaders through the Urban Youth Collaborative Program,” said Gov. Deval Patrick. “Their commitment to serving the people of the Commonwealth makes them incredible role models for the next generation.

The UYCP, now in its 21st year, introduces young adults to the field of human services, helps build an experienced workforce for the future and supports efforts to reduce the stigma associated with developmental disabilities. DDS manages Urban Youth Collaborative internship programs in Boston, Cambridge/Somerville, Fall River, New Bedford, Fitchburg/Leominster, Lawrence, Lowell, Quincy,Brockton, Springfield/Westfield, Holyoke/Chicopee, Worcester and the Central/Western region of the state.

The UYCP began in Boston in June 1992 as a collaborative effort between Madison Park High Schooland Bay Cove Human Services, with the goal of attracting young adults from diverse backgrounds to careers in human services.

The program has since expanded statewide, with interns placed at state-operated programs, developmental centers and non-profit organizations across the Commonwealth in full-time summer jobs, providing support to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Some employers have partnered with local colleges to offer course credit to interns participating in the program. Since its inception, more than 3,200 interns have taken part in the UYCP, with nearly half choosing to pursue careers in human services.

The following Grafton residents participated in the 2012 Urban Youth Collaborative Program:

Carissa Couture, Grafton

Trevor Stock, Grafton

Matt Tomiaolo, Grafton