BYA Golden Anniversary Party

June 20 marks the first day of summer, and in Birmingham, you know summer has really begun when the wildly popular Concert in the park Series begins. 

To celebrate 50 years of serving local youth and families, Birmingham Youth Assistance will sponsor a kick-off concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 20 in .

Steve Acho, a Detroit based singer-songwriter and alum will be the headliner. His songs have been featured on local and national radio and TV. Steve will be joined by longtime musician friends and fellow Birmingham Groves’ graduates. 

Not to be outdone, will be weighing in with a performance to honor BYA. The Theater Troupe, who received multiple awards and has even had their work performed on a Broadway stage, will be on hand to creatively express their thanks for all BYA has done in service to the community. 

“These concerts are open to everyone, and they are fun, free and family friendly.  It seemed a fitting way to honor BYA for serving thousands of young people and their families over the past 50 years. This event will be a celebration of that legacy.” said Richard Stasys, BYA chairperson. 

Along with the concert, BYA has other events that run throughout the year. In addition to hosting the perennial favorite Breakfast with Santa at The Community House in Birmingham, the organization also hosts Touch-a-Truck, and the Annual Kids’ Dog Show. 

Be sure to meet Boomer, the 50th anniversary celebration mascot, while at the concert. The core mission of BYA is prevention and reduction of juvenile delinquency, child abuse and child neglect by providing community based casework and counseling services as well as providing positive alternatives to children and families. 

“In my over 20 years of counseling local youth, I have seen many children overcome adversity and reach their true potential” said Nikki Keller, MS, and BYA caseworker.  Reaching true potential is what the annual Youth in Service Appreciation Breakfast is all about. This event honors local Youth for their outstanding contributions to our community. 

Peggy Kerr, Vice-Chair of the board and tri-chair of the BYA 50th Celebration Committee said, “Ironically, I received the Youth in Service Award from BYA in 1985, and I still have it! One of my teachers form Groves High School nominated me. It was rewarding as a teen to be recognized for volunteer work I was doing for my community, and it is nice that teachers and community leaders take the time to nominate young people that are doing good work."

"Past chairs, board members and all award winners are invited to join us at this celebratory event, which would not be possible without our sponsors, BYA, and the City of Birmingham.”