FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jerry Vernold Appointed to Delaware County Youth Bureau Longtime Youth Advocate Brings Proven Track Record to County Youth Board
HANCOCK, NY – October 16th, 2025 – Town of Hancock Supervisor Jerry Vernold announced today that he has been appointed to serve on the Delaware County Youth Bureau's Advisory Committee, known as the Youth Board. Vernold expressed his honor at being selected for this important role supporting youth development throughout Delaware County.
"I feel deeply honored to be named to the Delaware County Youth Bureau," said Supervisor Vernold. "This appointment is completely consistent with my longstanding support of youth activities and programs throughout our community. Our young people are our future, and investing in their success is one of our most important responsibilities."
Extensive Youth Advocacy Background
Readburn Memorial Park Family Expansion: Vernold is spearheading the creation of a comprehensive family park at Readburn Memorial Ball Field, featuring an ADA-accessible children's playground, expanded parking, and a new outdoor pavilion designed to serve families, children, and teens.
4-H Youth Support: Vernold has been actively working with local 4-H groups to provide funding support for youth to attend summer camp, ensuring that financial barriers don't prevent young people from accessing these valuable experiences.
Delaware Valley Job Corps Advocacy: As a strong supporter of the Delaware Valley Job Corps Center at Callicoon, Vernold has advocated for this critical program that provides career training, education, and support services for youth ages 16-24 from low-income backgrounds.
Vernold brings a remarkable 14-year track record as a Little League coach to his new role, demonstrating his hands-on commitment to youth development. His dedication to young people extends far beyond the baseball diamond through numerous community initiatives and infrastructure projects.
Current Youth-Focused Projects:
Understanding the Youth Bureau Mission
The Delaware County Youth Bureau serves as a county agency dedicated to stimulating youth development and preventing delinquency within Delaware County communities. The agency coordinates youth services, advocates for youth issues, funds eligible programs, and works with community groups to develop comprehensive youth programming.
Through its various initiatives, the Youth Bureau supports:
Summer and winter youth employment programs
Family support systems
Youth mentoring and empowerment programs
Alcohol and drug abuse prevention
Recreation programs including swimming, sports, performing arts, and crafts
Summer camp opportunities for at-risk youth
Community Impact Through Youth Investment
"Jerry's appointment to the Youth Bureau is a natural fit," noted a community member familiar with his work. "His vision for youth development goes beyond just providing activities—he's focused on creating lasting infrastructure and opportunities that will benefit generations of young people."
Vernold's comprehensive approach to youth support is evident in his broader community leadership, including his work on economic development projects that create pathways for young adults entering the workforce.
A Proven Public Servant
As Town of Hancock Supervisor for the past six years, Deputy Supervisor for seven years, and Town Councilman for three years, Vernold has consistently prioritized family-friendly community improvements. His track record includes completing major infrastructure projects, securing federal funding for community initiatives, and maintaining the town's excellent financial rating from the NYS Comptroller's Office.
The Youth Bureau appointment adds another dimension to Vernold's extensive service, which includes his roles on the Delaware County Board of Supervisors, Social Services Committee, Department of Public Works Committee, and as Chairman of the Delaware County Planning Department.
"This appointment allows me to expand my advocacy for young people beyond Hancock to serve youth throughout Delaware County," Vernold concluded. "I look forward to working with my fellow Board members to enhance opportunities for all our young people to thrive and succeed."
About the Delaware County Youth Bureau: The Delaware County Youth Bureau is a county agency guided by an Advisory Committee representing municipalities, service agencies, youth, volunteer organizations, and community members. The Bureau coordinates youth services, develops programs, and advocates for youth issues throughout Delaware County in cooperation with the NYS Office of Children and Family Services.
Contact: Jerry Vernold, Town of Hancock Supervisor Email: jv7@hancock.net Phone: (607) 287-2317