Editor:

The Evanston Youth Club for Boys & Girls is the only youth development agency in Uinta County that provides critical out-of-school programs for middle and high school youth. Our programs have been proven to make a positive impact in the lives of teens and empower them to reach their full potential. 

It was disheartening to learn that Uinta County Human Services Board was again completely cutting the funding to our program. It was even more disheartening to read that many other programs, including sled dog races, are funded by Uinta County, while programs directly related to our at-risk youth are receiving absolutely no funding. 

Our programs drive academic success, build good character and teach healthy lifestyles while showing youth how to give back to their community. Sadly, our county’s drop-out rates and teen pregnancy rates are higher than the national average. With nearly 300 teens enrolled in our program, we are making and can make a difference in their lives. 

It was also discouraging to read that Uinta County Human Services believes our program can continue without their financial support. Our program relies completely on grants and donations to function and needs approximately $25,000 each month to operate. We are constantly at risk of closure and, in fact, cannot provide services to all the youth in our area due to lack of funding. 

We urge and invite Uinta County citizens to understand where funds are being allocated and join with us in supporting our youth by volunteering or donating to our  youth programs. 

Holly Slade 

Evanston Youth Club for
Boys & Girls CEO