FY24: Legacy classes have been held virtually since the start of Covid. Classes began to occur in-person 1x a week beginning in September of 2023. In-person helps YES connect more with their clients, identify needs for clients/families, and have a better understanding of their academic skills. There have been challenges with bringing students in weekly due to added transportation and food costs, coordinating taxis, coordinating volunteer servers, managing student behaviors etc. 

The Legacy Program establishes a waiting list in February of 2024. Legacy is attempting to move 1 youth off the waiting list every week. While students are making progress toward GED. Math continues to be a struggle for some students. Transportation funding continues to be a barrier as Cecil County is a rural area with lack of public transportation options outside the Route 40 corridor.

FY24: The Legacy Program continues to engage opportunity youth in education advancement and workforce prep. Youth participated in Prepare U curriculum as well as Conflict resolution classes. GED classes and assessments are being completed each month and ended in June. In February, Legacy clients participated in a lesson about dressing for success and hygiene and were provided a bag full of hygiene products. Prepare U classes were completed in April of 2024. In May, students participated in a resume writing workshop with mock interviews from the Cecil County Board of Realtors.

FY23: At the start of the year, Cecil County Public Schools assisted with the provision of hot spots for the clients. The YES team conducted recruitment activities and referrals and intakes continue to increase as the year moves forward. The team has supported Legacy clients with new shoes, Thanksgiving baskets, and Christmas gifts through Angel Tree. Client engagement in virtual classes has improved, but the program would still prefer to meet more frequently in person. Despite seeking additional funding, financial limitations prohibit the provision of transportation for more in-person meetings. Clients regularly struggle with unsupportive parents and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression and mood disorders. Staff members continue to seek training for trauma-informed practices, including assessing the risk for suicide and self-harm. Staff members also recognize and support transgender clients with inclusive language and other supports.