The council for Developing Positive Youth Culture (DPYC), established in 1996, is an ad hoc committee with a mission to create and sustain a positive youth culture for Ellington’s youth through collaboration among the community, schools, and town agencies.
DPYC receives federal, state, and town funding to raise awareness, provide resources, and offer community and school programs on a variety of topics including:
In July of 2021, the Developing Positive Youth Culture (DPYC) Coalition was awarded the Prevention in Connecticut Communities grantthrough the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).
Through this initiative, The Village for Families and Children and Ellington Youth Services are partnering to prevent underage alcohol use in Ellington by promoting positive connections and decreasing risk that contribute to substance use. DYPC is thrilled to partner with a network of community members who are passionate about this initiative, such as youth, parents, businesses, and volunteers.
Alyssa Skewes is the Prevention Program Coordinator for the Town of Ellington's Prevention in Connecticut Communities, a DMHAS grant awarded to The Village for Families and Children. This grant is focused on helping Developing Positive Youth Culture expand and preventing underage drinking. As someone who grew up in town, she is excited and passionate about supporting the town of Ellington in prevention efforts. If you have any questions about these efforts or are looking to get more involved, please reach out to her.