Human Services committee hears presentations on social media impacts and county workforce programs

Caitlyn Lawyer, Youth Services Coordinator, told the Human Services committee that social media has complex generational effects and emphasized digital stewardship and in‑person socialization. "It's attention stealing," she said, describing how nonstop scrolling interrupts daily activities and can contribute to loneliness, anxiety and sleep disruption among youth. Lawyer highlighted program work (the Screeners project) aimed at reducing device dependence and increasing participation in youth programming.

Lisa Hetszler, Workforce Development Coordinator in the Department of Social Services, described the department’s caseload composition and work programs. She explained that many Temporary Assistance clients are work‑limited and that staff track medical records, orientations and program participation to meet state requirements. On youth employment, Hetszler outlined the Summer Youth (SY) program, Career Jam and Life Hacks outreach, and a constrained training budget that previously received a county supplement. "When I call or my team is calling, it's because they have work activities and we need to try to get them engaged in those activities," she said, urging local employers to accept placements and work experiences.

Both presenters emphasized prevention and pipeline development: Lawyer urged families and institutions to set device boundaries and prioritize in‑person connection, and Hetszler asked legislators to consider restoring prior supplemental county funding to expand youth placements and training pipelines.