Chet LoConti - Hey Neighbor 132

In this episode, we sit down with Chet LoConti, Director of the City of Utica Youth Bureau and a longtime basketball coach who has spent decades investing in local kids. Chet takes us inside the Youth Bureau and the incredible amount happening there every day. From after school programming and basketball to pools, parks, summer activities, swim lessons and even pickleball, the goal is simple. Give kids a safe place to go and people they can count on.

Chet also shares the side of the job that goes far beyond recreation. We talk about providing meals, clothing, hygiene products and other essentials for kids who need them. He shares the emotional story of two young men he coached who stayed in touch as they grew up and eventually reached milestones of their own. We also get into his nearly 30 years of coaching, the importance of being a father figure and why seeing a former player succeed means more than winning any game.

At the heart of the conversation is Chet's love for Utica. He talks about the people who quietly give back, the diversity that makes the city special and the team that makes the Youth Bureau's work possible. It is a great look at just how much can happen when a community gives young people a chance.

We Talk About:
• The programs and opportunities available through the City of Utica Youth Bureau
• How the after school program provides much more than a place for kids to hang out
• Chet's nearly 30 years of coaching and the relationships that have stayed with him
• The importance of donations, partnerships and community support
• Why Chet believes Utica's culture and its people make it a special place to grow up

For Chet, the mission can be summed up pretty simply. Every kid deserves a chance.

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:00) - Youth Bureau Offerings & Programs
(2:45) - What's Changed & Staff
(5:00) - After School Program
(8:25) - Success Stories
(10:30) - It Takes a Special Person
(12:15) - Donations & General Fund
(15:15) - Recruiting Workers & Workforce Development
(16:30) - Fatherhood
(19:35) - 29 Years of Coaching
(23:30) - What Makes Utica a Great Place For Kids?
(27:45) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Chet LoConti's Links:
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552065084235
IG - https://www.instagram.com/utica.youthbureau
Website - https://www.cityofutica.com/departments/youth-bureau

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