History & Impact
For over 40 years, CCYSB has been a trusted resource in Contra Costa County, providing critical mental health and family support services. Our programs have reached thousands, helping youth navigate challenges and build brighter futures.
What We Stand For
At CCYSB, our mission is to empower at-risk youth and their families by providing comprehensive, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive services that foster resilience, growth, and well-being. Through collaborative partnerships, innovative programs, and individualized support, we strive to create a safe and supportive environment where youth can thrive. Our commitment is to strengthen communities by advocating for equitable access to mental health resources, family stabilization, and opportunities for success.
Where We're Headed
At CCYSB, we envision a future where low-income children, youth, and families are empowered with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to overcome adversity and thrive. Through compassionate, community-driven services, we strive to break cycles of poverty and trauma, fostering resilience, stability, and success.
Our goal is to see every child, youth, and family transformed beyond their circumstances, equipped with the confidence, resources, and skills to achieve their personal and professional aspirations. By leveraging strategic information and impact, we aim to create a stronger, healthier, and more self-sufficient community for generations to come.
Our Impact
For over four decades, CCYSB has been a cornerstone of youth advocacy, mental health services, and community empowerment. Our programs have evolved to meet the changing needs of families, addressing challenges such as mental health support, educational barriers, violence prevention, and family stabilization.
Through innovative and evidence-based practices, CCYSB has influenced service models at the national level. The organization’s work has laid the foundation for Wraparound Services and the SafeFutures Project, both of which have been replicated across the country. Today, CCYSB continues to expand its reach while staying true to its original mission of strengthening families and communities through compassion, advocacy, and transformative support.
Building a Legacy of Support & Advocacy
The Contra Costa Youth Service Bureau (CCYSB) was founded in 1984 by a dedicated group of concerned citizens who sought to address the systemic causes of violence affecting communities in West Contra Costa County. What began as a grassroots movement quickly evolved into a vital community resource. By 1985, with an initial investment of $90,000, this initiative officially became the West Contra Costa Youth Service Bureau—a family-centered nonprofit service agency committed to providing quality programs for children, youth, and families.
From its inception, CCYSB consolidated and streamlined critical services previously provided by the West Contra Costa Unified School District, County Probation Department, municipal and county law enforcement agencies, and local community-based organizations. This collaborative model created a holistic network of support, ensuring that families had access to the resources necessary for stability, growth, and success.
A Message from Our Executive Director
At Contra Costa Youth Services Bureau (CCYSB), we are committed to strengthening and empowering the youth and families of Contra Costa County. Every day, we witness the resilience of the children, teens, and caregivers we serve, and we are honored to walk alongside them on their journey toward healing and stability.
Through our trauma-informed therapy, Wraparound services, and family support programs, CCYSB has made a meaningful impact in the lives of countless individuals. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that youth have access to the mental health care, advocacy, and resources they need to thrive. However, we know that our work is far from over. The need for accessible, culturally responsive services continues to grow, and we are committed to expanding our reach to meet it.
Our vision for the future is one of growth and transformation. We aim to broaden our services, increase community partnerships, and develop innovative programs that address the evolving needs of those we serve. By strengthening our support networks and extending our outreach, we will continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of youth and families throughout the county.
This important work would not be possible without the dedication of our incredible staff, the generosity of our Youth Champion donors, and the collaboration of our valued community partners. Your support fuels our mission and ensures that every young person has the opportunity to build a brighter future.
Thank you for believing in our mission, standing with our youth, and helping us create a stronger, more compassionate community. Together, we are changing lives—one family at a time.
With gratitude,
Marena Brown
Executive Director, Contra Costa Youth Services Bureau
Taalia Hasan: A Trailblazer in Youth & Family Advocacy
Ms. Taalia Hasan, the visionary founder of the Contra Costa Youth Service Bureau, has been a tireless advocate for youth and families in Contra Costa County for over 40 years. Her work began as an employee with the Children’s Council for West County, where she recognized the urgent need for a dedicated organization to address the complex issues affecting youth and families.
In 1984, alongside other community leaders, Ms. Hasan co-founded what was then known as the Youth Service Bureau. Her mission was clear: to tackle the systemic causes of youth violence and its profound impact on the community.
As Executive Director, Ms. Hasan pioneered holistic and community-driven approaches to supporting families, integrating mental health services, educational advocacy, and violence prevention programs. Under her leadership, CCYSB grew from a single bungalow at Riverside Elementary School to an expansive network of offices serving all of Contra Costa County.
Her visionary leadership and groundbreaking programs not only transformed Contra Costa County but also became the national prototype for youth services. Her work inspired the development of Wraparound Services and the SafeFutures Project, models that have been widely adopted across the country.
Today, Ms. Hasan’s legacy continues to shape CCYSB’s mission and values. Her commitment to empowering youth, strengthening families, and building stronger communities remains at the heart of everything we do. Now retired, Ms. Hasan enjoys time with her family and loved ones, leaving behind an enduring legacy of service, compassion, and advocacy.
“Ms. Taalia Hasan has been a great example of what a caring and productive community servant can be. Her legacy is the positive impact she has had on countless lives in Contra Costa County and beyond.”
Our Vision
CCYSB is Richmond’s leading youth advocate
- Children with mental health disabilities
- Youth transitioning out of probation
- Low-income youth
Our goal is to offer community-focused care for children that have suffered disadvantages at all levels.
CCYSB Best Practices Model
Mental and Physical Wellness: We provide the resources to help youth achieve health and wellbeing at home.
Youth Success: We empower youth to achieve their educational goals.
Community Building: We help youth adjust to their family, school, and the greater community through mentorship and engagement activities.
Legacy of Elders - Who is Isabel Emerson?
If you want to become a member of the Board of Directors team or a volunteer check out this video.