Recognizing the need to design, implement and evaluate the services that are offered to the youth of the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Nu Sigma Youth Services officially announced the creation of a new department: Youth and Family Services. The Founder and Executive Director of Nu Sigma Youth Services, Darryl Coates made the announcement on Monday, September 24, 2007. Following the announcement of the new department, Executive Director Coates subsequently stated that the new department would be headed by Brandon R. Brown as Director.

Mr. Brown, a graduate of Temple University and native Philadelphian, carries with him over 20 years of experience working with and developing programs for inner-city youth. In addition to being a Certified Positive Youth Development Trainer and Specialist, Mr. Brown also has the privilege of serving as an adjunct professor at Eastern University where he teaches Positive Youth Development.

The new department will focus its activities on the services provided directly to youth and their families. These services will include the following existing Nu Sigma Youth Services programs:

• SIGMA BETA CLUBS – a nationally sponsored youth Leadership Development program for young men ages 13-17.
• LEADERSHIP ACADEMIES – A special mentoring and enrichment program designed for males ages 8 – 12.
• LADIES FIRST – This special program is a youth leadership enrichment program for young ladies ages 13-17. The program provides mentoring, career exploration, etiquette classes for its participants.
• LADIES FIRST JR. - A stimulating enrichment program for young ladies age 8-12.

In addition to the above services, the Youth and Family Services will include the following:

• KEEP KIDS SAFE CAMP - This free Summer Camp Experience is for youth ages 9 to 13 who reside in Philadelphia and have been impacted or affected by violence in their communities.
• PROJECT R.E.A.C.H. - The R.E.A.C.H. program (Real Everyday Alternative Choices & Help) is designed to serve 5-9 graders that have 8-25 unexcused absences.
• PARENT/TRUANCY OFFICERS - The Parent/Truancy Officer Project targets youth who are most likely to be truant or have a history of truancy.

“We are extremely proud of the work that Brandon has done in the city of Philadelphia as an advocate for change and improving the lives of our youth. We are even more proud and excited to have someone with an extensive and culturally enriched background as Mr. Brown work with us in this capacity”, stated Executive Director Darryl Coates.