Reflections on YSI’s 70th Anniversary

I first heard of Youth Service, Inc. when I was a social worker at a girls group home in Pittsburgh and planning my return to Philadelphia. My mentor suggested that I reach out to Ted Levine, then Executive Director of YSI. YSI had a statewide reputation for quality and caring for any young person coming to them for help. I learned that the Executive Director was a committed social worker who manifested social work principles and values in every aspect of the work.

As we celebrate 70 years of Youth Service, Inc., we join with the community and supporters in acknowledging the impact of YSI. Founded on equity – accepting children of all races and religions – and providing the highest quality service for all, led to creative and responsive program opportunities, all with an emphasis to keep families together.

Each program added to the service opportunities centered on the highest quality and the response to feedback from those receiving services. From the first teen mother and baby group home to bringing the Crisis Nursery model to Philadelphia, YSI has been a leader and collaborator for the highest quality service for all touched by its programs.

As we stand on the hallmark of our next chapter, we are privileged to affiliate with People’s Emergency Service, a longtime partner, to ensure the community has the quality of services needed to thrive.

I thank all of you for your support of YSI’s mission, and children across Philadelphia.

Gwen Bailey

Executive Director, YSI