About Youth Services Bureaus
Youth Service Bureaus (YSBs) are Connecticut’s community hubs for youth and family support. YSBs are essential partners in helping young people grow, stay safe, and succeed. Each YSB is operated by one or more municipalities or by a designated nonprofit, and works closely with schools, town departments, and community organizations to coordinate services for youth and their families.
What is a YSB?
Youth Service Bureaus were first established in the late 1960s to respond to rising concerns about juvenile delinquency, school truancy, family crises, and substance use. From the beginning, their mission has been clear: Support young people by strengthening the environments around them.
Over the decades, YSBs have evolved into vital community resources that:
- Assess the needs of youth and families
- Develop or coordinate programs that meet those needs
- Foster collaboration between local institutions
- Promote positive youth development and early intervention
- Offer opportunities for youth to participate in community decisions that affect their lives
YSBs serve children and teens from birth through age 18 (or up to 21 if still enrolled in school), offering services tailored to each community’s needs.
YSBs by the Numbers
Towns and Cities Are Served by Youth Service Bureaus in Connecticut
Youth Participate in Intensive Services and Supports Each Year
%
of YSBs Have Expanded Direct Service Offerings to Meet Growing and More Complex Youth Needs
Individuals Were Reached by Youth Service Bureaus in 2024 in Connecticut
Programs Were Delivered Statewide, from Prevention to Mental Health & Leadership Development
Community Hubs with a Dual Role
Mandated by Connecticut State Statute 10-19m, YSBs are unique in that they operate as both:
- An administrative coordinator, planning, advocating, and mobilizing resources to support youth, and
- A direct service provider, offering programs and referrals that help young people and their families.
Administrative Core Units
Administrative Core Unit (ACU) functions are the foundation of how a Youth Service Bureau operates. These functions ensure that each YSB is meeting local needs, building partnerships, and improving outcomes for youth. The five core ACU responsibilities are:
Management & Administration
Ensuring the YSB runs smoothly and responsibly, including budgeting, staffing, and oversight of programs.
Needs Assessment
Advocacy
Resource Development
Community Involvement
Bringing together local partners such as schools, police, health providers, and other community organizations to support youth and families in a coordinated way.
Services That Make a Difference
While services vary by community, YSBs commonly offer or coordinate:
Youth Development
Mental Health & Family Support
Education & Employment
Community Engagement
Diversion & Juvenile Justice
YSBs play a vital role in Connecticut’s diversion system through Youth Diversion Teams (YDTs). Instead of being sent to court, young people who commit minor offenses are given the opportunity to take responsibility through a restorative process led by a community panel. This approach keeps youth out of the justice system, while still addressing the harm caused and supporting their growth through meaningful services and accountability.
Expert Tools for Stronger Youth Programs
Whether you're new to youth services or a seasoned leader, CYSA connects you with trusted guidance, real-world strategies, and the support you need to serve youth and families with confidence.
Events & Trainings
Access upcoming training on a wide range of topics, including YSB administrative functions, prevention and diversion services, and best practices.
By the Numbers
Find a YSB or YDT
Looking for local support for a young person? Use our interactive map or search tool to find your nearest Youth Service Bureau or Youth Diversion Team.