Community leaders gathered to celebrate the upcoming \"Youth Explosion\" event, scheduled for Saturday, August 17, at the Duluth Case Recreation Center in St. Paul. This inaugural event aims to uplift and honor local youth, showcasing their resilience and successes that are often overshadowed by negative narratives. The initiative aligns with strategic priorities to support justice-involved youth and their families, fostering personal growth and positive behavior in an inclusive environment. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in fun activities, including dunk tanks and tug-of-war games.

In a significant personnel update, Deputy County Manager Alex Kutza introduced Dana Damaster as the new Director of Innovation and Strategy for Ramsey County. Damaster, who has been with the county since 2015, has held various roles, including interim director and research manager. Her extensive experience in program evaluation and community engagement positions her well to lead innovative initiatives within the health and wellness sector. Damaster emphasized her commitment to enhancing service delivery for vulnerable residents and fostering collaboration across departments.

Commissioner Maguire expressed enthusiasm for Damaster's appointment, highlighting the importance of innovation in the county's operations. The discussion underscored the need for effective outcomes in budget processes, ensuring that investments lead to meaningful improvements in community services.

Additionally, Commissioner Moran reported on her recent participation in a graduation event for the Partnership for Permanency, which supports foster youth and young adults. The event focused on empowering these individuals and creating leadership opportunities, reflecting the county's ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable populations. Moran's keynote address at the summit highlighted her dedication to workforce development and education for youth who have navigated the foster care system.