Oklahoma Association of Youth Services

Message from the Director - Shawn Black

Welcome to the Oklahoma Association of Youth Services web site. Our association is comprised of 40 "designated" not-for-profit Youth Service Agencies located throughout Oklahoma. A local board of directors governs each Youth Services Agency. Youth Services Agencies are dedicated to providing high quality services to our state's greatest assets-children, youth and families.

There are five core categories of program services provided by Youth Services Agencies: community development and education, prevention, diversion, behavioral outpatient/rehabilitation services and residential programs. These community based services can include individual and group counseling, mentoring, parenting classes, first offender programs, shelters, community intervention centers, and services for at-risk youth.

Each Youth Services Agency is required by Oklahoma State law to undergo an annual peer review process. This review process examines areas such as agency operations, agency policy and procedures, board governance, and service delivery. The review is designed to ensure each agency meets standards and provides quality services.

The Oklahoma Association of Youth Services provides each member agency information exchange, systems analysis and program development. As you explore this site, you will find Youth Services Agency websites, information resources, event announcements, and other valuable information. You will also find a means of forwarding to us your comments or questions. Feel free to use these resources, and share information about our programs with your family, neighborhood, and community.

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