Feb. 15, 2013-- Westchester County will contribute $135,000 over three years to fund a program to help young girls living in Mount Vernon develop lifelong decision making skills that will enhance their health and emotional well being, County Executive Robert P. Astorino announced today.

The program, "Girls Embracing Maturity," will be operated by the city's Youth Bureau, under terms of a three-year agreement approved by the county's Board of Acquisition and Contract. Annually, Westchester County and the Mount Vernon Youth Bureau will both contribute proportional amounts.   

"This program is designed to help young women make smart decisions on how to avoid risky behavior that could ruin their lives," said Astorino. The investment in this program benefits the participants as well as their communities and county."

The Mount Vernon Youth Bureau was one of 39 agencies that had applied for funding from the county through a request for proposals ("RFP") process.

Dr. Iris Pagan of the Westchester Youth Bureau commented: "To appreciate one's own talents and capabilities is a challenge for young women in today's society. This program helps young women develop this awareness."