For Information Contact:

Brian Adey
 798-5800

Oneida County Executive Joseph A. Griffo today announced that Oneida County will fund “Safe Streets – 2006,” a program to offer Utica young people increased recreational outlets, positive programming and alternatives to the streets. Griffo said the project will also provide financial assistance to support programming at the Cosmopolitan Center.

Griffo noted that three Oneida County Legislators serving the inner core areas of Utica – Legislator William Hendricks, Minority Leader Harry Hertline and Legislator Rose Ann Convertino – had all expressed a need for the program.

“After extensive dialogue with these legislators, who have been talking with the people of their neighborhoods, I have decided we need to offer this program to help at-risk youth who lack the income and access to programs in the suburbs. These programs will help the young people of Cornhill not only find alternatives to unhealthy activities, they will help them grow by increasing their self-esteem and by providing a structured, supportive environment,” Griffo said. He noted that through recreational programming, youth learn more than sports.

“Teamwork and tolerance are vital lessons that come through the project’s recreational activities. Program participants are exposed to conflict resolution and diversity training. This training lays the foundation skills for developing workplace skills as well as leadership and citizenship skills and is on-going throughout the program,” Griffo said.

Griffo said the programs will be overseen by the Oneida County Youth Bureau and the Office of Workforce Development.

Legislator Hendricks said: “Recreation is the gateway to character-building activities for youth. Youth who will not participate in other forms of activity that may help discourage drug use, prevent violence, encourage academic achievement and promote career development will participate in recreational programming.

Minority Leader Hertline said: “The youth of West Utica need increased recreational opportunities. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, and we need to work with them to help provide activities and programs that will offer supports to help them develop their full potential.”

Legislator Convertino said: “Programs that offer activities for young people are an investment in the future of our community. Summers are times when there is a lot of free time for young people; these efforts will help them avoid activities that can lead to trouble and help them increase their leadership skills.”

Cosmopolitan Center Executive Director Sam Smith said: “Oneida County’s investment in the young people of Utica and in the Cosmopolitan Center is very much appreciated. The Center has been trying to meet rising needs while facing rising costs. The County’s support will help us serve more young people.”

Youth can sign up for programming at the Cosmopolitan Center or by going to the basketball courts at Martin Luther King School or Steuben Park. For more information on Safe Streets and other programming for youth, contact the Cosmopolitan Center at 735-7525