Durham, N.C. – Residents are encouraged to participate in a pair of Community Forums to introduce the new Durham County Resources for Youth Success & Empowerment (RYSE) Assessment Center. The two sessions will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. inside the Durham County Main Library’s auditorium, located at 300 N. Roxboro St., on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, and Tuesday, August 13.

A third online session has been added on Tuesday, August 27 from 6-7 p.m. for those who could not attend an in-person one. Click here - https://bit.ly/DCoRYSEonline - to join the meeting

These informative and engaging community forums will provide community members a chance to learn about the new program and its benefits to the Durham County community. Participants will get a firsthand perspective from RYSE Assessment Center staff, be able to ask questions, and share their thoughts.

Residents may also submit questions in advance for staff to answer during the forum here. Spanish translation will be on site for the July 30 session.

The RYSE Assessment Center, located at 2432 Broad St., provides a non-threatening, inclusive atmosphere for parents who are simply looking for information for their youth who are exhibiting social, emotional, or behavioral challenges. It is a community-focused program that connects youth and their families to a plethora of resources in Durham County.

“These forums will provide an opportunity for the community to come together to not only learn about who we are and what we offer, but also to provide us feedback and information on how we can support young people and their caregivers as well as build bridges across Durham,” said Jennifer McRant, Program Manager RYSE Assessment Center.

Youth ages 10 to 17 and their families will have the opportunity to connect and work with a case manager to create a plan that aids their growth and meets their individual needs. The Assessment Center also includes a 90-to-120-day diversion program that connects at-risk youth to needed resources to reduce their contact with the criminal legal system. Both programs at the center are voluntary and cost-free. The center is not a service provider, but a resource hub for Durham County residents to collaborate with Durham programs and organizations.

For more information about the RYSE Assessment Center Advisory Board or RYSE Assessment Center, please contact RYSE@dconc.gov.

###