About

Sankofa Youth Services, Inc (SYS) was founded by Tarsha Washington in February/ 2011.  SYS works with the youth and their families, in an effort to support and empower individuals to reach their desired goals.  SYS is a person centered environment, in which self- determination is encouraged, modeled and commended. SYS engages others with warmth, respect and positive regard.  During Tarsha’s undergrad studies in Social Work at Herbert Lehman College located in Bronx, New York, she was introduced to the Social Work Relationship Principles of Felix Biestek.   The late Felix Biestek, a Priest, Professor and Author of The Casework Relationship. Chicago: Loyola, 1957, developed 7 Social Work Principles and the following principles sets the standard for SYS’s Philosophy and is executed in high regards:  

  • Individualism- Recognizing that each youth has his/her own unique qualities.

  • Purposeful Expression of Feelings- Recognizing the persons’ need to express his/her feelings freely.

  • Controlled Emotional Involvement- Sensitivity to a person’s feelings and having an appropriate response.

  • Acceptance – Seeing the person where he/she is at including strengths and weaknesses, so that the person can feel safe to reveal him/herself and have self -awareness. This will help the person take a realistic approach to deal with barriers.

  • Non Judgmental Attitude – Not making someone feel guilty or persecuted because of their situation and/or problem.

  • Self- Determination – The right and the need for one to freely be involved in making their own choices and decisions in the helping process.

  • Confidentiality- Is a person’s right! Confidentiality is broken only when the person signs a statement for release of information to others, the court orders confidential records, or when the person is in danger to himself or others.

SYS conducts a clinical interview in an effort to understand any/all barriers that may be causing a disruption in the home, at school, at work as well as in the community that impairs a person’s social functioning. SYS will assess and recommend best practice, in an effort to assist/support with any/all presenting issues/problems.