Community leaders demand funding for Blue Hill Civic Association's youth programs in Hartford

A powerful call to action echoed through the Hartford City Council meeting on May 12, 2025, as community leaders rallied to reinstate the Blue Hills Civic Association's summer youth employment program. Amani Shirley, a social worker and former core chair of Young Legends, passionately advocated for the program, emphasizing its vital role in workforce development and community engagement. "These employment opportunities have allowed me to grow both professionally and personally," she stated, highlighting the program's impact on local youth.

Julia Leonard, a paraeducator and neighbor from Windsor, echoed Shirley's sentiments, urging the council to restore the Blue Hills Civic Association's staff and programs. She noted that the summer youth program recruits hundreds of young people, providing them with essential skills and a sense of belonging. "The Blue Hill Civic Association stands for hope, purpose, and a thriving community," Leonard asserted, questioning why such a crucial resource was at risk.

Brother Kelvin Lovejoy, a long-time resident, painted a poignant picture of the association as a nurturing force in the community. "For 62 years, Blue Hill has been a mother to North Hartford," he said, calling for immediate support to ensure the continuation of its programs. Lovejoy's emotional appeal underscored the urgency of the situation, framing the summer program as a lifeline for local youth.

The meeting also saw Alyssa Peterson address the council, criticizing the political dynamics that led to the association's abrupt closure. She pointed out that the agency had been mismanaged and called for a return to its original mission of community service and youth programming. Peterson expressed hope for restoring funding and oversight to revive the association's critical services.

As the meeting concluded, the collective voices of the community underscored a pressing need for action. The council faces a pivotal moment to support the Blue Hills Civic Association, a cornerstone of Hartford's community fabric, and ensure that its summer youth program continues to empower the next generation. The outcome of this discussion could significantly impact Hartford's youth and the broader community, making it a focal point for future council decisions.