History of the Youth Service Bureau, Inc
During the mid 1970's, a young Stillwater police officer assigned to work with local schools to deal with student misconduct and truancy envisioned a better way . He worked with local community leaders to create a new organization in 1978 to hold youth accountable, provide information needed to make better decisons, improve decision making skills and support parents as they guide their child toward adulthood. With the hiring of a staff member, counseling services were added to help families deal with issues before more complex problems arose.
In the southern part of Washington County, a similar effort was underway by a collaboration of local governments, the school district and interested community leaders. A new organization was formed under a joint powers agreement in 1976 to provide counseling services and youth diversion programs.
In 1996 the two organizations joined together to create the Youth Service Bureau, Inc with service centers in Stillwater and Cottage Grove. A Woodbury Service Center was added in 2002.
With the continued expansion of the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area, the YSB continued to serve more families from adjoining Wisconsin counties. The YSB officially extended its service area to include St. Croix and Pierce counties in Wisconsin and opened a service center in Hudson. Many YSB programs offered in Wisconsin are provided in partnership with local communities using their facilities.
Today, the YSB remains true to the ideals of its founders. Youth continue to learn more about their behavior and how to make better decisions. They are held accountable and coached as they make amends to those hurt by their behavior. Parents get support in guiding their child and coaching to get through difficult times.
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