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Resource Fair Helps Youth and Parents Map the Future

By Y. Denise Caldwell Community and Family Relations Coordinator TJJD Parole - Northern District 

“My other son can come too?” an excited mom asked after learning that the YouthBuild program accepted youth of all ages.

Frank Kuykendahl of YouthBuild addresses youth and parents.
“What do I have to do next?” one youth asked, when she realized that she could get assistance to pursue her dream of becoming a phlebotomist.

Both were attending the recent 2019 Fort Worth Parole Family Resource Fair, an event dedicated to providing parole youth and their families with information about all of the resources available to them in the community.

The invited guests included not only YouthBuild, but Job Corps, Redemption Bridge, WorkForce and MHMR of Tarrant County -- all services that can help youth build skills and connections to become a success in the working world.

In addition, TJJD Ombudsman Allen Wallace and Reentry Specialist Angela Barry shared information about their services.

“We’re here to help you,” said Tony Roberts, TJJD Parole Supervisor for the Northern District. “We want you to succeed. We want your kids to succeed.”

Parole Officers Jeffrey Manuel and Natasha Johnson offered community service hours to youth who attended, which helped improve turnout. Youth and their parents enjoyed the event and said they were grateful for the information.

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