SRSLY team committed to Manchester youth

submitted by SRSLY Manchester’s Coalition

The past year has brought unique challenges, but SRSLY’s commitment to our youth is as strong as ever. As students return to school, SRSLY Manchester remains ready to support and empower young people as they live, learn, and grow.

Our youth face peer pressure and unhealthy choices every day — and SRSLY aims to be a consistent, positive force for good. Here is how we made that happen in 2020 and 2021:
• When in-person meetings weren’t possible, SRSLY held virtual meetings to connect with youth.
• We shared information about healthy choices through our monthly social media campaigns.
• We encouraged youth and families to be physically active through our Pedal for Prevention virtual fundraiser.
• We helped prevent substance use by providing at-home disposal systems for unused and expired medications.
• The SRSLY leadership team enriched their skills and knowledge through virtual conferences and trainings.
• We finalized our strategic plan, which will guide our work for the next three years. We will publish our plan on the SRSLY website in mid-September.

We know that to remain healthy, our youth need to feel supported and they need to make regular connections. Moving forward, SRSLY will continue to offer safe in-person and virtual activities.

Meet Your SRSLY Manchester Team

Alex Duranczyk, Coalition Director, SRSLY Manchester

SRSLY Manchester’s Coalition Director, Alex Duranczyk, has been with the organization for three years. In this role, Duranczyk leads the coalition’s efforts and programming. She also oversees the daily operations and community impact.

Duranczyk earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Eastern Michigan University, and has experience with a variety of youth-focused organizations. A native of Stockbridge, Duranczyk understands the importance of community within small towns. Throughout her time at SRSLY, Duranczyk has been impressed with the character of Manchester’s young people.

“I am so proud of the youth in Manchester, who have proven to be creative, passionate, and resilient,” said Duranczyk. “The youth in Manchester are true leaders who bring their knowledge and positive energy to our mission.”

Caroline Sloss, Program Coordinator, SRSLY Manchester

Caroline Sloss is the new Program Coordinator for SRSLY Manchester. In this position, Sloss will facilitate programing for SRSLY while supporting its youth and families. She holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from Bryn Mawr College and a master’s degree in art and design education from the Pratt Institute. Before joining SRSLY, Sloss was a kindergarten and high school teacher in New York City. Sloss is also Program Coordinator for SRSLY Stockbridge.

“Caroline is an excellent fit for SRSLY because she has a passion for helping young people,” said Duranczyk. “I’m excited to see her enthusiasm and knowledge in action as she collaborates with our SRSLY Manchester youth and volunteers.”

“I’m proud to be a part of SRSLY because we get results for our community,” said Sloss. “It’s exciting to see how our efforts are making a difference for young people.”

SRSLY Manchester wouldn’t exist without our hard-working, dedicated volunteers. To learn more about SRSLY Manchester and how you can get involved, please visit srslymanchester.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.