SOUTH : 3 Youth Programs Receive Grants

United Way of Greater Los Angeles has awarded grants totaling $141,000 to three local youth programs.

The National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency, Los Angeles, which provides teen parenting classes, literacy classes and substance abuse counseling, received a $70,000 grant.

“This means we can get the services out there and start this collaborative effort,” said Terry Hayes, executive director of the organization at 8915 Avalon Ave.

The group will use the one-time grant to start a pilot program in conjunction with the Los Angeles Probation Department to reduce juvenile delinquency.

“This really does invest in South-Central. It will help provide a comprehensive approach to working with kids and their families,” Hayes said.

El Nido Family Center and Family Services of Los Angeles’ Manchester Center also received funds. Both provide counseling services and offer drug-prevention programs.

“This was some additional monies that were available on a one-time basis,” said Yezdyar Kaoosji, regional vice president of the Metropolitan Region, United Way. “The idea was to distribute the money as quickly as possible, so we went back to the agencies we know have worked very well and effectively.”