POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino’s longstanding commitment to youth services continues with a reimagined Youth Opportunity Union (YOU) initiative as part of her 2025 Executive Budget. The County Executive is expanding the YOU beyond the development of a single facility, broadening the YOU’s focus to bring together youth service providers, community organizations and municipalities to form a collaborative network to offer resources that will help young people succeed.
"The Youth Opportunity Union is more than just a physical building—it’s about a true union of support for our young people across Dutchess County," said County Executive Serino. "Through this initiative, we are creating a cohesive, inclusive network where young people have access to the opportunities and support they need to thrive."
To symbolize this emphasis on this united network of service providers, County Executive Serino has unveiled a new logo highlighting the collaborative spirit and shared goal of promoting opportunities for youth throughout the county.
County Executive Serino’s 2025 budget continues Dutchess County’s strong investment in youth services, with $715,000 allocated for YOU funding opportunities to assist youth service providers in the development and/or expansion of programming and resources for young people including:
Karmen Smallwood, Dutchess County Department of Community & Family Services’ Assistant Commissioner for Youth Services said, “Expanding the YOU’s focus fosters a sense of community among service providers, creating a strong supportive network that enhances program design, accessibility, and effectiveness.”
County Executive Serino also outlined next steps for the Youth Opportunity Union facility in the City of Poughkeepsie. The YOU has recently gained new momentum with the award of a $10 million NY SWIMS grant, fueling excitement and progress. This transformative funding allows the County to take a fresh look at the project’s design and operational plan, ensuring both capital funding and long-term sustainability.
Plans for the YOU Facility are focused on two essential components: an aquatics center, as required by the NYSWIMS grant, and a youth services hub. The County is seeking a partnership with a community organization that can operate the youth services component, ensuring it offers high-quality programs while remaining operationally sustainable. Dutchess County is also starting fresh on the building design, seeking to work with new partners to create a new conceptual design that balances affordability and practicality. The County’s ultimate goal is to see the project come to fruition, taking into account fiscal realities and ensuring quality services are provided.
The members of the YOU Advisory Committee collectively offered the following statement, "The Youth Opportunity Union (YOU) represents a groundbreaking initiative focused on providing a supportive environment where young people can flourish, and communities can come together in Dutchess County. We see the YOU as more than just a physical space; it will be a powerful catalyst for change, nurturing connections, skills, and opportunities for our youth. By meeting the diverse needs of young people, the YOU will enhance the vitality of our communities. Together, we are dedicated to fostering a nurturing atmosphere where youth can thrive and reach their full potential."
County Executive Serino concluded, "Our vision for the Youth Opportunity Union represents a significant leap forward for youth services in Dutchess County. By investing in both physical infrastructure and the programs that support young people, we are building a brighter future for our community."
County Executive Serino will present her 2025 Executive Budget in the Dutchess County Legislature Chambers on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 3 p.m. The County Executive’s Budget Address can be viewed live on the County’s website, dutchessny.gov/budget2025. Serino will also host a countywide tele-town hall forum at 6:30 p.m. that evening, when residents can participate in a live conversation about the proposed budget, learn key details, ask questions and share feedback.