Announcement of Transition at Metro Youth Partnership:

In light of recent financial challenges, the board of directors of Metro Youth Partnership has decided to lay off the executive director, Barry Nelson, as of July 1 and to actively pursue merger opportunities to assure that the mission, resources, and program initiatives are preserved. The board is committed to the best use of its resources, to honor donor and funding responsibilities, to make sure that all financial obligations are met, and to keep healthy community and the development asset framework alive in the community.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact:
Barry Nelson or Denise Peterson
Metro Youth Partnership
810 4th Ave. So. #147
Moorhead, MN 56560
218-299-5437
Or
Tim Mathern
701-893-5016
Board Member, State Senator, Employee of Prairie St. Johns

Metro Youth Partnership Announces Changes
The board of directors of Metro Youth Partnership has reorganized the agency in light of recent financial challenges.

“We are saddened to say that on July 1 we must lay off Barry Nelson, our executive director of eight years, but we see no other recourse in these tight economic times,” says Val Ritland, MYP board chair. “Barry has done a remarkable job of getting the message of the 40 Developmental Assets out into our communities. Youth and adults alike have benefited by his dedication to making this the best place on the planet to be a kid.”

The board of directors will actively pursue merger opportunities to assure that the mission, resources, and program initiatives are preserved. The board is committed to the best use of its resources, to honor donor and funding responsibilities, to make sure that all financial obligations are met, and to keep healthy community and the development asset framework alive in the community.

FAQ
What is happening at Metro Youth Partnership?
The board of directors of the non-profit, Metro Youth Partnership, took a hard look at the financial situation and determined that the best course of action at this time is to do a lay-off of the executive director, Barry Nelson, as of July 1. The board will look for a merger so the mission, vision, and programs can continue.

Who will be in charge of Metro Youth Partnership in the absence of an executive director?
Tim Mathern, Board Representative at 701-893-5016 or Denise Peterson, Metro Youth Partnership, 218-299-5437.

What will happen to MYP from this point forward?
Members of the board are actively seeking good merger prospects in the community. If you know of an organization that might fit well with Metro Youth Partnership, please contact Denise Peterson at 218-299-5437 or Tim Mathern, Board Representative at 701-893-5016 for further discussion. The board wants to keep the mission, vision, and programs of Metro Youth Partnership alive for our communities. The programs will continue until further notice and determination by the board.

What are the key programs of Metro Youth Partnership?
Scholarships for youth activities and camping
Youth Summit
MentorLink
Asset Champion Network
Student surveys
Communication of the 40 Developmental Assets through the quarterly Asset Builder, monthly electronic Asset Messages for congregations, and electronic Youth Updates
Positive Sports Experience
Mentor Cass-Clay
Metro Early Childhood Alliance
BOOST partnership with Impact and FirstLink
Relationships with key educators at local schools
Intergenerational Commission on Youth

With what organizations are you talking about merging?
It is premature at this time to mention agency names without agency permission. Metro Youth Partnership looks forward to finding the right match so this mission and vision can continue.

Is this change connected to the loss of funding from United Way of Cass Clay?
No, the financial challenges have been growing for a while now, and it became clear that action needed to be taken. The decision of the United Way of Cass Clay, although disappointing to Metro Youth Partnership, was not directly connected to the decision of the board of directors.

If you have further questions, feel free to contact Metro Youth Partnership at 281-299-5437.