The Office of Youth Development (OYD) is a unique partnership between the City of Norfolk, Norfolk Public Schools, the Department of Human Services and the Department of Neighborhood Preservation with a mission to promote, affirm and strengthen the community’s commitment and capacity to support the development of youth.

OYD works with the area youth, youth service providers, community leaders, community agencies, parents, families, civic leagues, and other stakeholders to develop a community-led initiative that will guide current and future decisions regarding youth in Norfolk.  Its impact stretches across the City, positively identifying our youth’s role in the Norfolk caring community.

OYD aspires to make Norfolk a safe and positive place for young people to grow into mature, responsible, and caring adults.  Supported by the Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets for positive youth development and the B.E.S.T. Initiative for youth employment, the Office of Youth Development’s Strategic Action and  Implementation Plan strives to enhance the productive development of our young people.