Providing resources and tools to community leaders, caring adults and youth

News

Do Education Cuts Have to Be a Zero Sum Game?

3/3/2010

Recently, IPS Superintendent White said $27 million in budget cuts were necessary to shore up the district’s financial outlook after property tax caps kick in – including money which would have gone to school funding. And one of the areas in which he’s chosen to cut back is elementary school arts programs. Strong evidence exists that links arts education with overall improved literacy skills. What are some strategies for advocating for comprehensive educational funding during tight economic times?

Read the full article and join the discussion.

MORE

PRESS ALERT: Early Intervention & Prevention Community Roundtable

2/12/2010

Community Roundtable to Bring People from All Sectors Together to Identify Strengths, Needs and Gaps in Early Intervention and Prevention Services in Marion County

What: Early Intervention and Prevention (EIP) Community Roundtable
When: Wednesday, February 24, 2010, 1pm-5pm
Where: Children's Bureau - Gene Glick Family Support Center, 1575 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street Indianapolis, 46202

MORE

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

2/10/2010

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Louis Morales is dedicated to helping students succeed in school and beyond. "I am really pushing students to pursue education and become successful citizens," says this teacher and our featured Everyday Champion.

Louis' impact on youth extends outside of the classroom. As head varsity coach for the Northwest High School soccer team, Louis organized the first soccer league in IPS. He has been a mentor to many minority and at-risk students. He is married and the proud father of two children.

Read full article.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Initiative Will Reduce the Number of Families in Child Welfare & Juvenile Justice

2/9/2010

Steering Committee Formed to Develop a Three-Year Strategic Plan

Both common sense and science indicate that addressing the risk factors in a child's life as comprehensively and as early as possible can make the critical difference in changing that child's life-and his or her potential to make positive contributions to our community for the better. To reach that goal Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY) has assembled an Early Intervention and Prevention (EIP) Steering Committee to guide the formation and implementation of a three-year strategic plan for early intervention and prevention services in Marion County, the goal of which will be to reduce risk factors and promote an asset-rich community for children and families, ultimately reducing the number of children and families who become involved in the child welfare and/or juvenile justice systems.

MORE

BLOG POST: A Genuine Commitment to Young People

1/28/2010

We know what it takes for young people to achieve success.

Where we seem to fall short is the community wide commitment to a LONG TERM effort to prepare all young people for college, work, and life by the time they reach young adulthood. What will it take to secure that commitment--from all sectors of our community? What do you think?Join the discussion.

MORE

BLOG POST: Grant Opportunities for Youth Programs

1/11/2010

Be sure to follow MCCOYouth on Twitter -- that's the first place we'll post information about grants that are available to community and youth organizations.

MORE

BLOG POST: Youth Development & Community Development Go Hand in Hand

1/7/2010

When considering how young people play into the mix of healthy communities, many think it’s just about the quality of their schools. Or how many youth centers are in the neighborhood. Or even what the juvenile crime rate looks like. Positive youth development, however, is a framework that relies on all the factors that intersect with a young person’s life – including, perhaps most importantly, the physical and economic communities in which he or she grows up. Read full article.

MORE

2010 Learning Network Preview

12/8/2009

See what' learning and networking opportunities will be available in 2010 through MCCOY's Learning Network.

Download 2010 Preview.

MORE

BLOG POST: How Do We Engage Young People?

11/30/2009

Engaging young people in the programs youth organizations offer is easier said than done. And the reality is, the fact that youth simply “show up” doesn’t mean they’re invested or engaged in the activities. So how do we create better opportunities for young people to really get engaged in? Better engagement ultimately leads to better results. Read full post.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: MCCOY Hires Staff to Focus on Supporting Youth Workers & Youth-Serving Organizations

11/23/2009

For over fifteen years, Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY) has provided a wide range of learning and networking opportunities for youth development professionals and youth-serving organizations. To continue drive this effort MCCOY has hired Shaunette Byers, Community Initiatives Coordinator, to lead both the Learning Network and Youth Program Quality Improvement/Assessment (YPQA/I) initiatives.

MORE

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

11/19/2009

While the community has focused on reducing teen pregnancy, the fact remains that many teens in our community do get pregnant. Wanda Spann Roddy, Director of Future Promises, educates and advocates for pregnant and parenting teens, improving their health and life outcomes.
Go to blog post.

MORE

OP-ED: Youth Emergency Services (YES)

11/17/2009

On December 31, 2009 a valuable service in Marion County will be closing its doors; what will happen to the children, youth and families who will no longer be able to walk through those doors? Youth Emergency Services (YES) provides what YES Program Director John Kennedy calls, “pre-system, in person, crisis care, twenty-four/seven, without an appointment, adjudication or diagnosis!” These services are available to provide comfort and safety to children and families during crisis or to intervene before the situation becomes a crisis. Now who will provide these services?

MORE

Thank A Youth Worker

10/30/2009

Don't forget to thank a youth worker on November 5, 2009

Check out the Thank a Youth Worker Day website at www.thankayouthworkerday.org

MORE

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

10/14/2009

We're excited to feature Rebekah Mazanowski in this edition of Everyday Champions. Rebekah, a Parent Liaison at Howe Community High School, is also the sister of Natalie Mazanowski, MCCOY's Communications Director. Rebekah appreciates the role that her parents and the community have had in helping her develop into the person she is today. Growing up in a large family, she understands that parents and families need the support of a strong and healthy community.
Go to blog post.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: MCCOY Hires Staff to Focus on Early Intervention & Prevention Initiative

9/22/2009

Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY) has hired three new staff to focus on their Early Intervention and Prevention initiative: Shanna Malott, Early Intervention Community Coordinator, Connie Berg, Early Intervention Resource Development Officer, and Emily Chew, Early Intervention Assistant.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Excellence in Summer Service Education Award Honors 22 Young People

9/4/2009

On Thursday, September 3rd at 6:00pm at the Indianapolis Art Center, the Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY) and the partners of the Summer Youth Program Fund honored 22 local young people with the Excellence in Summer Service Education Award. Mayor Greg Ballard spoke at the ceremony honoring the work, commitment, and service young people provide our community in Marion County summer youth programs. Keith Veal, President of Sustainable Solutions was the keynote speaker, and Willis Bright, Director of Youth Programs at the Lilly Endowment, wrapped up the evening.

MORE

MCCOY Honors Young Workers for Their Dedication to Summer Programs

8/28/2009

On Thursday, September 3rd at 6:00pm at the Indianapolis Art Center, the Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY) and the partners of the Summer Youth Program Fund will honor 22 local young people with the Excellence in Summer Service Education Award.

MORE

2009 EASY Books Available Now

8/19/2009

Drive up & pick up your copies in the United Way garage on August 26th.

MORE

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

8/5/2009

We're thrilled to feature Trevor Holloway in this edition of Everyday Champions. Trevor, a recent graduate of North Central High School, is also a MCCOY Board Member. This summer, in addition to getting ready to head off to college in Bloomington, Trevor has been assisting MCCOY staff with the upcoming Summit for Student Success. He's been a joy to have in the office, not only for his remarkable skills and fun personality, but also for his engagement and excitement for youth development.
Go to blog post.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Business & Community Leaders to Share Insight on How Community Can Champion Youth

7/31/2009

MCCOY announced its line-up of breakout presenters for Central Indiana’s Summit for Student Success: Bringing the Community Together to Tackle the Dropout Challenge, which will be held at Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis on Monday, August 10, 2009. Presenters include Nick Weber, Deputy Mayor of Indianapolis, Rick Fuson, Executive Senior VP for Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Dr. Jackie Greenwood, Director of Secondary Schools for IPS, Bill Corley, President & CEO of Community Health Network and David Harris, President & CEO of the Mind Trust.

MORE

Help Us Go Green at the Summit for Student Success

7/21/2009

Donate travel mugs and water bottles...

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: National Summer Learning Day Spotlights Programs that Combat Summer Daze

7/15/2009

Children filed into the gymnasium at St. Richard School on Thursday, July 9th, joining community leaders, youth workers and other caring adults to celebrate National Summer Learning Day.

MORE

OP-ED: Everyone has A Stake in the Positive Development of Youth

7/13/2009

Making sure kids have better opportunities and healthier futures isn’t only the job of teachers, or youth workers, or parents. It is everyone’s responsibility, and no matter what you do for a living, whether you have kids in your life or not, you play an important role.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Registration Now Open for Central Indiana's Summit for Student Success

7/13/2009

MCCOY announced that registration opened this week for Central Indiana's Summit for Student Success: Bringing the Community Together to Tackle the Dropout Challenge, which will be held at Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis on Monday, August 10, 2009. Keynote speakers include Tarik Glenn, former Colts offensive tackle and Founder of D.R.E.A.M. Alive, Dr. Tony Bennett, Superintendent of Public Instruction for the State of Indiana, and Karen Pittman, Executive Director of the Forum for Youth Investment in Washington, DC.

MORE

OP-ED: Summer and Learning Make a Great Team

7/9/2009

Thursday, July 9th is National Summer Learning Day. That's right-contrary to popular belief, summer and learning DO go together and young people across our community are the direct beneficiaries of this new way of thinking. If young people are going to do well in school and be fully prepared for the world of work, they need year-round opportunities to learn more and build essential skills. It is past time that we revise our notion that summertime is when learning takes a vacation.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Indianapolis Celebrates National Summer Learning Day

7/6/2009

Local celebration of National Summer Learning Day to shine a spotlight on programs that combat summer daze.

MORE

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

6/29/2009

Our first Everyday Champion is Chad Richards, an Account Manager at Firebelly Marketing. Leveraging his expertise as a marketing professional, Chad volunteers with youth and with organizations that support youth. In addition to his classroom volunteerism described below, Chad also contributed his internet marketing expertise at MCCOY's Social Media Marketing for Nonprofits training. He was also recently asked to join the Board of Directors of IndyDads.
Go to blog post.

MORE

MCCOY @ the Smaller Indiana Bigger Idea's Conference

6/25/2009

Paul Poteet listens to Kirsten Eamon-Shine's reaction to Bigger Ideas Conference.

6/24/2009

It’s easy for us to say we value young people and the programs that provide them opportunities to grow, learn, and connect with the community. But sometimes it’s hard to put good intentions into action. That’s where MCCOY’s Community Compacts for Youth come in. They’re designed to help you discover concrete ways to improve how you or your organization supports youth development in central Indiana.
Go to blog post.

MORE

2009 Youth Activity Directory Now Available

5/28/2009

Just in time for summer!

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: MCCOY Seeks Proposals from Organizations Supporting Positive Outcomes for Youth

5/27/2009

Indianapolis, IN—Does your agency offer opportunities for young people to develop the skills necessary for learning, leading, thriving, connecting or working? Are you involved in a successful partnership or initiative achieving positive outcomes for youth? Do you utilize an approach you believe to be cutting-edge or "best practice"? If so, consider sharing your experience and insight with community and business leaders at Central Indiana's Summit for Student Success: Bringing the Community Together to Tackle the Dropout Challenge, which will be held at Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis on Monday, August 10, 2009.

MORE

MCCOY Announces Position Openings

5/12/2009

Seeking candidate to support for early intervention and prevention planning efforts.

MORE

OP-ED: Children Needn’t Go from School Days to Summer Daze

4/20/2009

When you are making your summer plans with the children you care about, be sure to take advantage of the many learning opportunities available in central Indiana.

MORE

BLOG POST: Don't Let Rainy Weather Stop You From Turning Off the TV

4/20/2009

It's international Turnoff Week. So turn off your TV, iPhone and Xbox, and say goodbye to Twitter and Facebook. Are you up for the challenge?
Go to blog post.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Souder Reconsidering FYCA Sponsorship

4/14/2009

Community Support Was Key – And You Still Can Make a Difference
On March 18, MCCOY sent a sign-on letter in support of the Federal Youth Coordination Act (H.R. 7004) to Representative Mark Souder of Indiana's 3rd Congressional District. The letter was signed by 38 organizations and 109 individuals from across Indiana and urged Souder, Indiana's only representation on the Education and Labor Committee, to support the creation of a White House Office on Children and Youth by signing on as an original co-sponsor of the bill.

MORE

BLOG POST: Child Stress & Poverty

4/13/2009

A study led by Gary W. Evans, a professor of human ecology at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., recently linked childhood stress and poverty to reduced working memory function in late adolescence. Reading about it in the Washington Post (you may need to register to access the article), I started thinking about the impact that our current economic situation may have on young people, as well as how caring adults and family members can limit the negative aspects of that impact.
Go to blog post.

MORE

BLOG POST: Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps

4/1/2009

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels today announced the state will hire 2,000 young adults to spend this summer and next improving Indiana’s parks, trails and natural habitats. The program, called the Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps, will use federal stimulus funds designated for employment and training of people 16 to 24 years old. Go to blog post.

MORE

BLOG POST: Teen Birth Rates

3/26/2009

Last year was the second year in a row that teen birth rates rose. Since 2005, the teen birth rate increased by 2% after 14 years of consistent decline. When it was reported that the teen pregnancy had risen across ethnic groups, popular responses ranged from, “see what happens when abstinence-only is taught in classrooms?” to “see what happens when there’s not enough abstinence-only taught in classrooms?” Of course, youth development professionals know that the issue is far more complex than that. While national and state education policies play an important role in determining what gets taught in the classroom, often the reality is that young people get a steady stream of mixed messages about health and sexuality.
Go to blog post.

MORE

PRESS RELEASE: Hoosiers Support Legislation to Coordinate Youth Services and Programs

3/11/2009

MCCOY is asking the community to sign a letter of support for the Federal Youth Coordination Act (H.R. 7004). This bill seeks to create a White House Office on Children and Youth, which would strengthen the efficiency and effectiveness of youth programs and services. The letter is directed to Representative Mark Souder of Indiana's 3rd Congressional District, who is a member of the Education & Labor Committee. As of Tuesday, 100 individuals and 36 organizations have signed the letter of support. To learn more or sign the letter of support, visit MCCOY's website: www.mccoyouth.org

MORE

BLOG POST: Meet ROY!

3/10/2009

It's finally here - central Indiana's new, searchable database of youth activities and opportunities! ROY is now gathering information from youth-serving organizations about their programs and activities. Creating a profile is FAST, EASY and absolutely FREE (music to a non-profit's ears).
Go to blog post.

MORE

BLOG POST: How Children Learn

2/4/2009

The classic, How Children Learn, is making a resurgence among parents and educators alike lately.
Go to blog post.

MORE

BLOG POST: Recess Matters, Too!

1/30/2009

According to a recent study published in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, taking recess out of the school day can have serious consequences in child behavior.
Go to blog post.

MORE

CALL TO ACTION: Support the Federal Youth Coordination Act

1/26/2009

The Federal Youth Coordination Act (FYCA) of 2008 (H.R. 7004) seeks to create a White House Office on Children and Youth, which would strengthen the efficiency and effectiveness of youth programs. Your support of this act can improve the odds for youth in central Indiana.

1/14/2009

Youth Radio is an organization in Oakland with the deeply held belief that underserved youth have the creativity, skills, and entrepreneurial spirit to become multimedia industry leaders.
Go to blog post.

MORE

The Real MCCOY - January 2009 Newsletter

1/7/2009

Learn what's new at MCCOY.

MORE

MCCOY INTRODUCES STRATEGY TO EXPAND THE REACH & QUALITY OF YOUTH PROGRAMS

12/4/2008

On December 8th, MCCOY will launch the Ready by 21 Quality Counts initiative and introduce the Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) to community and youth development leaders.

MORE

News

Newsletters

Calendar

News

Do Education Cuts Have to Be a Zero Sum Game?

3/3/2010

PRESS ALERT: Early Intervention & Prevention Community Roundtable

2/12/2010

Community Roundtable to Bring People from All Sectors Together to Identify Strengths, Needs and Gaps in Early Intervention and Prevention Services in Marion County

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

2/10/2010

PRESS RELEASE: Initiative Will Reduce the Number of Families in Child Welfare & Juvenile Justice

2/9/2010

Steering Committee Formed to Develop a Three-Year Strategic Plan

BLOG POST: A Genuine Commitment to Young People

1/28/2010

BLOG POST: Grant Opportunities for Youth Programs

1/11/2010

BLOG POST: Youth Development & Community Development Go Hand in Hand

1/7/2010

2010 Learning Network Preview

12/8/2009

BLOG POST: How Do We Engage Young People?

11/30/2009

PRESS RELEASE: MCCOY Hires Staff to Focus on Supporting Youth Workers & Youth-Serving Organizations

11/23/2009

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

11/19/2009

OP-ED: Youth Emergency Services (YES)

11/17/2009

Thank A Youth Worker

10/30/2009

Don't forget to thank a youth worker on November 5, 2009

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

10/14/2009

PRESS RELEASE: MCCOY Hires Staff to Focus on Early Intervention & Prevention Initiative

9/22/2009

PRESS RELEASE: Excellence in Summer Service Education Award Honors 22 Young People

9/4/2009

MCCOY Honors Young Workers for Their Dedication to Summer Programs

8/28/2009

2009 EASY Books Available Now

8/19/2009

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

8/5/2009

PRESS RELEASE: Business & Community Leaders to Share Insight on How Community Can Champion Youth

7/31/2009

Help Us Go Green at the Summit for Student Success

7/21/2009

PRESS RELEASE: National Summer Learning Day Spotlights Programs that Combat Summer Daze

7/15/2009

OP-ED: Everyone has A Stake in the Positive Development of Youth

7/13/2009

PRESS RELEASE: Registration Now Open for Central Indiana's Summit for Student Success

7/13/2009

OP-ED: Summer and Learning Make a Great Team

7/9/2009

PRESS RELEASE: Indianapolis Celebrates National Summer Learning Day

7/6/2009

BLOG POST: Everyday Champion

6/29/2009

MCCOY @ the Smaller Indiana Bigger Idea's Conference

6/25/2009

BLOG POST: Want to be a Champion for Youth?

6/24/2009

2009 Youth Activity Directory Now Available

5/28/2009

PRESS RELEASE: MCCOY Seeks Proposals from Organizations Supporting Positive Outcomes for Youth

5/27/2009

MCCOY Announces Position Openings

5/12/2009

OP-ED: Children Needn’t Go from School Days to Summer Daze

4/20/2009

BLOG POST: Don't Let Rainy Weather Stop You From Turning Off the TV

4/20/2009

PRESS RELEASE: Souder Reconsidering FYCA Sponsorship

4/14/2009

BLOG POST: Child Stress & Poverty

4/13/2009

BLOG POST: Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps