Youth Services

Decatur Youth Services Director:
Brandon Watkins

Administrative Team:
Shannon Shackelford
Jocelyn Covington
Lemzel Johnson
Paireese Bouldin

Department Phone:
(256) 341-4690

Main Office Address:
1202 5th Ave, SW
Building B
Decatur, AL 35601

Office Hours:
8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Monday – Friday

Additional Locations:
Central – 1504 Central Parkway
6th Street – 1504 5th St. NW

Facebook:
DYS Page

Instagram:
@CityofDecaturYouthServices

Decatur Youth Services Logo

Department Functions / Responsibilities:

DYS: Our History & Our Future

The City of Decatur established the Youth Services Department in response to a task force convened by the mayor. This task force was charged with addressing the economic, social, and educational challenges that negatively affect the quality of life for our young citizens. One key recommendation was to appoint a dedicated individual responsible for disseminating information about problem-solving programs, gathering data, identifying at-risk youth, promoting educational efforts, reviewing enforcement programs, and coordinating with both public and private agencies. This role is crucial in implementing programs that address the underlying social issues contributing to youth criminal activity.

Goals

The primary goal of the Youth Services Department is to foster and support a community-wide effort to address the challenges facing our youth, including high school dropout rates, illiteracy, unemployment, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, gang involvement, juvenile delinquency, and poverty. To achieve this, the department will:

  • Collaborate closely with existing agencies to enhance interagency communication and cooperation, ensuring that our collective efforts benefit the children.
  • Assist law enforcement agencies by providing support for the rehabilitation of juvenile delinquents, youth felons, and habitual offenders.
  • Promote activities aimed at deterring gang membership and involvement.

While the department’s focus is on at-risk youth and young adults from all socio-economic backgrounds, it is acknowledged that children from low-income areas and minority communities may benefit most from these services. The department is committed to helping children develop self-esteem, establish a strong sense of self-worth, and build character by interacting with successful adults who serve as positive role models and mentors. Through a coordinated community effort, the Youth Services Department aims to be a pivotal force in shaping the future of Decatur’s young citizens.

THE CITY OF OPPORTUNITY