On June 10th, Valley Youth House staff, along with our friends at the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, participated in our annual Staff Appreciation Day.  The theme of the day was “The Art of Living: Resilience and Reaching Teens” and the keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, MD, MS, ED.

Dr. Ginsburg is a pediatrician specializing in Adolescent Medicine at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.  He also serves Philadelphia’s homeless youth as Director of Health Services at Covenant House Pennsylvania. The theme that ties together his clinical practice, teaching, research and advocacy efforts is that of building on the strength of teenagers by fostering their internal resilience. His goal is to translate the best of what is known from research and practice into practical approaches parents, professionals and communities can use to prepare children and teens to thrive.

The day also comprised of a State of the Agency Address from VYH President & CEO, Tom Harrington, and Executive Vice-President, Bill Motsavage.  VYH staff mingled with staff from other office and got to know each other better through ice-breaker activities.  Awards were also given to employees with 15 years or 10 years of employment at the agency, as well as awards in the following categories:

• Interns
• Administrative Professionals
• Otherwise Awesome
• Bachelor’s Level Counselors
• Master’s Level Therapists
• Supervisors/Coordinators
• Dr. David Gilgoff Leadership Award (named after former VYH President & CEO)
• Carole Ferretti Memorial Award (in honor of former VYH Board member)

If you are interested in employment at Valley Youth House, visit the Career page  on our website.

Visit our Facebook page to view photos from the event.