FAQs

Youth Commission

1. Sometimes I see "Youth Commission" and sometimes "Youth & Family Services"...can you explain why this is so? ": The Department had been known as the "Needham Youth Commission" for over 40 years, however according to town records, we are officially "Needham Youth & Family Services." In the summer of 2009 we began to make this known to the community, and while our name is different than what most people have known, our services, passion, support to youth and families has not changed.

2. Where are you located --- on Highland Aveneue or Dedham Avenue?: Our office and mailing address is 1471 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA 02492 (Needham Town Hall). This is the corner of Great Plain Avenue and Highland Avenue. Our office is located on the lower level.
For directions and information about parking go to www.needhamma.gov/youth/directions.

3. I am a Needham resident looking for a youth to help me around my house and was told that you offer such a service...is this true?: Yes, we maintain listings of youth, ages 12-18, who want to be hired by residents for jobs such as snow shoveling, leaf raking, babysitting and others. Needham residents can obtain a list of youth by contacting our office. For more information, please go the Employment Program webpage.
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4. Do you handle work permits?: No, Youth & Family Services does not process or handle work permits for youth. All work permits are now handled by Needham High School even if you do not attend as a student. Please contact workpermits@needham.k12.ma.us to obtain a youth/student work permit.

5. Do you offer counseling services and how much do they cost?: Yes, and these services are offered for free to Needham residents. For more information, please view the "Counseling Services" webpage or contact our office at needhamyouth@needhamma.gov or by calling 781-455-7500.
Counseling

6. I am interested in serving on the Board of Directors...how are members appointed?: To learn more about the Youth Commission Board, please contact Director Sara Shine at sshine@needhamma.gov or by calling 781-455-7500 ext. 264.
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