Harkins, Merski: Nearly $160K secured to steer youth toward productivity, away from violence

Rep. Robert Merski    January 11, 2023 | 3:03 PM

ERIE, Jan. 11 – New funding of $157,888 to the Youth Leadership Institute of Erie will help the organization continue successful programs to help at-risk youth and reduce violence, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.

“Securing this new funding for the Youth Leadership Institute of Erie will support the organization’s vital “Connected in 5” program,” Harkins said. “The program helps high school students discover and develop their unique strengths and talents, putting them on the path to a productive future and steering them away from violence.”

“Youth Leadership Institute’s programs are a critical supplement to classroom learning for so many at-risk teens,” Merski said. “In addition to providing practical learning like developing interpersonal skills, prepping for college entrance exams and creating a resume, the program helps high school students develop self-confidence and understand how they can be a strength to their community.

“The result is more productive young adults and less community violence.”

More about the funding, which was awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, is available here: https://www.governor.pa.gov/newsroom/governor-wolf-announces-100-million-in-grants-to-reduce-community-violence-bringing-wolf-admin-violence-reduction-investments-to-355-million/

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