History

 

Northeast Kingdom Youth Services (NEKYS) is the leading not-for-profit youth organization responding to the needs of youth and families in Caledonia and Essex Counties. NEKYS was formed in 1975 by a group of concerned citizens responding to the needs of local youth.

 

Throughout our 36-year history, we have provided prevention and intervention services including crisis response, day shelter, transitional housing for youth, mentoring, restorative justice, and court diversion programs.

 

NEKYS is governed by a voluntary, community-based Board of Directors, and relies on federal and foundation grants, funding from the Vermont Legislature, contracts, fundraising, and appropriations from the towns we serve to provide consistent response to local needs.

 

Our work is facilitated with twenty-two staff members and 137 volunteers serving on Diversion Boards, mentoring youth, engaging in community service and fundraising events, and facilitating educational presentations and trainings.

In 2011, Northeast Kingdom Youth Services (NEKYS) served over 4,107 people in Caledonia and Essex Counties, representing approximately 10% of the total population. One hundred and twenty youth were homeless or at imminent risk of being homeless. Our staff is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.