BOSTON – Creating art and positive opportunities gives youth a chance to find their voice and understand their own lives as well as the world around them.

The second annual Share Your Art – Share Your Voice! Exhibition showcases the work of youth involved with the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services, the state’s juvenile justice system.

Share Your Art – Share Your Voice! will be at the Student Center Ballroom at UMass Boston on Tuesday, June 17, from 2-6 p.m. The event is hosted by the Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) in partnership with the Department of Youth Services and the Commonwealth Corporation.

“A significant challenge for all adolescents is finding healthy outlets where they can explore their interests and channel their energy in constructive ways. The DYS showcase reflects the potential of our young people and the hard work of the teachers and staff in our DYS programs who engage youth in incredibly positive ways,” said Commissioner of the Department of Youth Services, Peter Forbes.

“This exhibition is a terrific opportunity for celebrating the accomplishments and talents of youth committed to the Department of youth services, acknowledging the passion and persistence of the workforce (of DYS teachers and employees) that supports them, and providing youth with a forum to express themselves and their creative talents,” said Woody Clift, Director of DYS Programs at CES.

The event will feature youth performances and presentations, a gallery of youth art, featured community and career-readiness programs, and remarks by key officials. Many pieces of youth art will be available for purchase and are priced between $40 and $100.

For more information, visit: Share Your Art – Share Your Voice!