Our Mission:
New London Youth Affairs is a Youth Service Bureau which promotes positive outcomes for children, youth, and families by supporting a wide range of comprehensive services and collaborations.

Download our July 2016 - June 2017 annual report card (pdf document).

NLYA offers free programs for youth from birth to 21 years, and for their families.



        • Early Childhood and Family options are provided at the Family Center for children between birth and 3 years of age, and their parents. Weekly themed series include community links, free books, performers, and trips, as well as parent education workshops and individualized resource connections.

        • Whale's Tales Children's Book Bank procures thousands of books, which it then disseminates to children through literacy programs and school / community opportunities.

        • Teens in Action (high school ages) is offered after school, through local partnerships, featuring varied activities that include job/career development, secondary education preparation, academic assistance, entrepreneur-ships, community service, individualized work plans support, educational trips, and healthy meals. Join Now! Now Accepting Applications!

        • COOL Directions - This program targets high school age juniors and seniors who meet eligibility criteria. COOL assists with the following: career and educational guidance, job seeking skills and portfolio development, driver's education support, and work-based learning experiences including internships job shadowing.

        • Summer Youth Employment & Training Program (SYEP) - offers New London area youth, ages 14-21, the opportunity to gain employment experience, improve marketable skills, initiate job contacts, connect with career-related role models, and identify resources for future employment. Learn more...   Download an application. Applications must be returned in-person to Youth Affairs Main Office on the 1st floor in the Martin Center on Fridays, starting May 4th, 2018, between 3:00 - 5:00 PM.

        • Parent Leadership Training is a great opportunity to strengthen your advocacy skills and connect with other parents facing similar challenges and interests. These trainings are facilitated through various programs such as People Empowering People (communication focus), Parent Leadership Training Institute (community advocacy), Parents Supporting Education Excellence (education focus), and more. We offer FREE courses, Free Child care, and Free Dinner! Need transportation? Just ask what services may be available. Download a flyer of our upcoming Parents Supporting Educational Excellence training (PSEE).

        • The New London Community & Campus Coalition - The NLCCC was established to create a community coalition to address issues of underage drinking and substance abuse. Over 25 different community agencies and institutions join the effort that also includes addressing risky behaviors (violence and teen pregnancy) mental health, and school performance.

        • The Juvenile Review Board - In collaboration with the NLPD, the NLCCC also started and manages the Juvenile Review Board (JRB). The Juvenile Review Board is a community-based diversion program. Community-based diversion is the act of diverting juveniles from the Juvenile Justice System and connecting them with local services and agencies appropriate to meet their needs.

        • Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) - SADD's mission is to empower young people to successfully confront the risks and pressures that challenge them in their daily lives, and to make positive decisions that advance their health and safety. These young people target their goals through prevention initiatives, educational experiences, and community service opportunities.