East Liberty nonprofit Youth Enrichment Services Named 2019 Champion in Action
“Trib Total Media recognizes the power of the mentorship provided to young people in the Pittsburgh region by Youth Enrichment Services.”
— Jennifer Bertetto, Trib Total Media President and CEO
By Courier Editor, March 4, 2019
The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Youth Enrichment Services (YES), a nonprofit providing socially and economically at-risk youth the opportunity to achieve success through participation in mentorship, education and enrichment programs, has been named a 2019 Champion in Action in the category of Youth Leadership. The award, announced jointly by Citizens Bank, WPXI-TV, Trib Total Media and Pittsburgh Cares, includes $35,000 in unrestricted funding as well as promotional and volunteer support for the organization’s outstanding work, according to a release.
Youth Enrichment Services (YES) provides empowerment, experiential opportunities, academic enrichment and summer employment as positive pathways to future success. YES partners with local organizations to create synergy and generates transformative stories, national accolades and positive research outcomes.
Dennis F. Jones, PhD
Executive Director
Dr. Jones is an associate Professor in the College of Physical Activity and Sports Sciences, Department of Sport Studies, and teaches a variety of courses to both undergraduate and graduate students. In addition to teaching, Dr. Jones provides senior leadership to Youth Enrichment Services, where he is both the founder and Executive Director. Dr. Jones has operated YES for over 23 years and continues to be the visionary behind the work in which YES engages.
He earned his Ph.D., from the University of Pittsburgh in 1988 with a Major in Health, Physical and Recreation Education. His area of concentration was in Sport Administration; Higher Education Administration; Sport Pedagogy and Teacher Education. Dr. Jones also holds a Masters of Science from West Virginia University in Sport Behavior with a concentration in Sport Sociology and Sports Psychology.
Finally, to top off his education credentials, he holds a Bachelor of Science from Concord College with a major in Education with a concentration in Secondary Physical Education 7–12; Speech and Drama Education 7–12.
From 1989 to Present, Doctor Jones is a Tenured Associate Professor, College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, West Virginia University.