Engagement Specialist Strategic Planning

Stephan Palmer

Hartford, CT 860-***-**** *******@*****.***

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Professional Summary

Strategic and community-driven Youth Engagement Specialist with 10+ years of experience in mentorship, advocacy, and program development. Committed to empowering youth through innovative initiatives that promote academic, personal, and entrepreneurial growth. Recognized for leading diverse teams, influencing policy reform, and cultivating meaningful partnerships that foster sustainable impact.

Core Competencies

• Youth Mentorship & Family Advocacy

• Legislative & Policy Consulting

• Program Development & Administration

• Strategic Planning & Organizational Leadership

• Crisis & Behavior Management

• Community Organizing & Stakeholder Engagement

• Fundraising, Grant Writing & Campaigns

• Creative Initiatives: Music Production & Storytelling

Professional Experience

Founder & CEO

Youth on Fire Inc., Hartford, CT 2018 – Present

• Direct strategic planning and operational oversight for a nonprofit empowering youth through education, leadership development, and mentorship.

• Lead and support a team of 8 staff and 4 professional mentors, ensuring consistent program quality and impact.

• Cultivate community partnerships, design outreach campaigns, and develop policies to drive engagement and secure funding.

• Spearheaded growth strategies contributing to increased community reach and long-term sustainability.

Advisory Board Member

Automatic Benefits for Children (ABC) Coalition 2022 – Present

• Provide policy recommendations through lived experience in partnership with national researchers and child welfare advocates.

• Advise on the development and implementation of a national child allowance and family support framework.

Parent Consultant

Two-Gen Initiative, CT Commission on Women, Children & Elderly 2016 – Present

• Collaborate on statewide efforts to improve family-centered services through policy development and strategic planning.

• Co-author training materials and resource protocols to enhance access for vulnerable populations.

• Present research and recommendations at state-level meetings with legislators and stakeholders.

Policy Advocate

Juvenile Justice Policy Oversight Committee, AFCAMP 2019 – 2022

• Conduct legislative research and advocate for reforms within Connecticut’s juvenile justice system.

• Facilitate cross-sector dialogues to improve legal protections, rehabilitation services, and youth outcomes.

Advocate & Consultant

Children’s Defense Fund 2021 – Present

• Champion equitable housing, economic mobility, and youth empowerment through policy development and advocacy.

• Collaborate with local and national organizations to shape initiatives that support marginalized families and children.

Education & Certifications

Human Services Assistant Certification

Capitol College, Hartford, CT 2018

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