The ordinance aims to expand programs and activities that prevent violence, support youth and families in addressing trauma and toxic stress, and create more opportunities for a better quality of life.
At first glance, the ordinance appears to introduce a new initiative. To date, all operating recreation centers in Cleveland have undergone this transformation. These centers now offer expanded programs and employ social support specialists who are trained in youth development, and social workers who are available to assist anyone in need of support.
Our recreation staff often face similar demands. The addition of social support specialists provides a dedicated, full-time staff person to address more complex issues when individuals walk into a center needing extra help.
In addition, all recreation staff have been trained in trauma-informed care practices, equipping them to provide better support to those who may be dealing with trauma or toxic stress. Joy Whitlow is a youth and education advocate and mentor with over 20 years of experience working with youth in public and private schools throughout Greater Cleveland and surrounding areas.
She believes recreation centers are key in offering not just activities for youth, but a safe space for families to heal, grow, and access necessary support. The recreation centers offer much-needed resources from academic support to mental health services and are foundational in empowering youth to envision brighter futures. Echoing this sentiment, Nichols acknowledged that some programs at the recreation centers do offer mentorship opportunities for young people.
