House Republican Press Release

June 21, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Anne Ruwet Named to Youth Futures Committee

Will Bring Her Expertise to Issues of Education, Jobs, Housing, Youth Leadership

State Rep. Anne Ruwet, R-65^th District, Torrington, has been named to a new high-level committee to assess and improve services to Connecticut young people, including those in danger of dropping out of school or who have special physical or mental health needs.

The 17-member Youth Futures Committee is composed of six legislators, state officials and Connecticut youth services leaders.

In making the appointment, House Minority Leader Robert Ward, R-86^th, North Branford, said, “Anne Ruwet is one of the most dedicated and knowledgeable people in the state on children’s issues. I know that the talents and expertise she brings to the committee will be of great value and service to our state and its children.”

In accepting membership in this volunteer committee, Rep. Ruwet said, “It is a privilege to receive this appointment. I truly believe that our youth are our future, and it is our obligation to help them to help themselves.”

Among the committee’s top goals is to help all students receive a good education. The committee will seek to improve school attendance, academic and technical proficiencies, and high school diploma and equivalency completion rates.

The committee also will take steps to help young people prepare for jobs, through college or other training programs. The committee will work to increase the percentage of youth enrolling in and completing postsecondary education and training programs, as well as skill-building employment programs.

Further, the committee will assess the availability of stable and safe housing for young adults, access to mental and physical health providers, and opportunities to engage in public service, and to develop leadership and mentoring skills to assist other young people who will follow them.

“Many young people are at risk of dropping out of school, becoming underemployed and missing the opportunity to develop to their highest potential,” said Rep. Ruwet. “This committee will identify best practices throughout the state and the nation to help young Connecticut residents develop the skills, traits and knowledge for future success.”

The state legislature and the governor created the Youth Futures Committee this year as part of HB 5532, An Act Concerning Youth Policy. As spelled out in the legislation, the committee must develop service delivery guidelines, improve communication among agencies, assess existing resources to maximize their use, and collaborate with partners to facilitate positive youth outcomes.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell signed the bill on June 6 and the committee is scheduled to convene by July 1.

Rep. Ruwet serves the 65^th Assembly District of Torrington in the state House of Representatives. In the legislature, she is ranking House member of the legislature’s Select Committee on Children.

Rep. Ruwet also serves on the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee and the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee.