District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board
The District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board consists of local sophomore, junior and senior high school students who meet on a regular basis with the District Attorney’s Office. The objective of the Board is to address issues facing today’s teens and research effective prevention strategies. Some initiatives the members will participate in include: internet safety presentations to elementary school students, the Board’s “It Only Takes One” safety campaign, and social media awareness presentations to area parents. Students on the Board provide a voice for and participate in projects that address pressing issues facing teens.
Stop the Swerve
The Hampden County District Attorney’s Office launched a public service announcement contest open to all Hampden County high school students to highlight the dangers of impaired driving. High School students produced their own original videos noting the risks associated with drunk or drugged driving, and communicated messages about public safety. The students who submitted the winning entry were honored at a special event hosted at the Basketball Hall of Fame and earned their school a $10,000 grant to improve the school’s technological equipment. The winning announcement aired on local television this year.
Adopt-a-Class Program
Every year, the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office adopts two classes at the beginning of the school year. Guest speakers provide insight on the different offices that make up the criminal justice system inside the court house, as well as showcasing career opportunities. The program includes the D.A.’s Office donating school supplies, a return visit to provide a lesson in civics, and participation in a trial reenactment. The program concludes later in the year with participating classes spending a half day touring the Hampden County Hall of Justice as invited guests of the District Attorney.
3-on-3 Basketball Tournament & Youth Job Fair
Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni’s summer job fair and 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament saw over 200 young adults participate in a daylong event. It provided a fun and safe environment for young people to come to have fun as well as learn about employment opportunities for the summer and practice resume building.
Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative Summer Basketball League
Sponsored by Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni. The summer league engages young people in the middle school to high school age levels. The league provides a safe and structured environment during the summer while school is out. Over 200 young people participate in the league.
Internet Safety Presentations
Done in conjunction with the District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board. Internet safety presentations are provided to elementary and middle school aged kids. To date, the Internet Safety Presentation Series has been presented to over 2000 students throughout Hampden County.
