Youth Service Bureau (YSB) provides a network of resources and opportunities for children, youth, and their families through partnerships with many local service providers. A wide range of services and programs are offered with the goal of helping youth grow to become productive members of the community.

For more information, or a complete listing of providers and the services offered please contact Mark Harp at the YSB by email at Mark.harp@bridgeportct.gov

Youth Service Bureau (YSB) also accepts school and parent referrals for youth who are truant, defiant of school rules or beyond control. The YSB will work with the family to find suitable community support for their child. For more information, contact: Director- Regina.vermont@bridgeportct.gov , YSB-Administrator- Michele.dias@bridgeportct.gov, or Community Health & Safety Coordinator- Derrick.patrick@bridgeportct.gov

View our Summer Learn Grow Play Activities Guide Flip Book-2024

OUR GOAL

To support children, youth, and families-- so that all children, adolescents, and young adults reach their full potential and become productive citizens.

The City of Bridgeport Youth Service Department works in partnership with many local service providers to ensure youth ages 5 to 21 have opportunities and experiences to learn and grow in a structured environment. The department subcontracts and provides direct services for prevention activities that include the following : 

• Lighthouse Program has 22 after-school and summer sites and 7 before school programs.
• Bridgeport Youth Club program, designed for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, hosts youth & family focused activities & services including pre-school nutrition, crisis intervention, Juvenile Review Board activities, parenting classes, out of school time initiatives, etc.
• Youth Services Bureau holds training & employment programs, teen activities/workshops and middle school sports and clubs.  
• Summer Youth Employment Program places youth ages 14 through 21 in jobs, working four (4) hours a day. Youth are trained in areas related to job readiness skills, working with younger children, life skills, conflict resolution, and team building strategies. The training is offered by area professionals and provide youth with an overview of employment expectations.

Summer Youth Employment Applications will be available online after May 1, 2024