TOYA CHERELL BANKS
Hartford,CT
Summary
Trained and experienced Youth Leader with a proven track record of managing and mentoring youth in diverse settings. Demonstrates a strong ability to manage groups of 13–20 youth, foster peer-to-peer collaboration, and guide youth through conflict reconciliation and restorative practices. Builds on team concepts in environments that promote independence and growth. Possesses well-developed skills in prioritizing, organization, decision-making, time management, and communication. Committed to fostering strong interpersonal relationships and cultivating safe, respectful spaces for youth to thrive
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Organizer / Youth Development Specialist
Blue Hills Civic Association
04.2021 - 04.2025
- Managed and mentored cohorts of 13–20 youth in academic, social-emotional, and cultural development programs.
- Facilitated weekly peer collaboration sessions to promote team building and communication skills.
- Led restorative circles and conflict resolution practices to reconcile disagreements among participants.
- Developed and implemented career readiness training aligned with 12 Career Competencies.
- Coordinated with cross-sector professionals (education, police, health) to ensure wraparound support.
- Conducted weekly case management meetings, monitored progress, and tracked program impact.
Nonviolence Lab Coordinator (CLHS)
CT Center for Nonviolence (CTCN)
09.2020 - 06.2021
- Delivered Kingian nonviolence training to approximately twenty youth, emphasizing peaceful conflict resolution.
- Observed student interactions and intervened with restorative strategies when necessary.
- Collaborated with faculty and the equity committee to create an inclusive environment.
- Supported twenty youth leadership through group facilitation and advocacy skill development.
Youth Trainer
CTCN – ThinKING Nonviolence
08.2019 - 06.2020
- Supervised and mentored youth in virtual and in-person settings, supporting groups of up to 20.
- Fostered strong individual relationships with students, encouraging leadership and voice.
- Co-led problem-solving sessions and de-escalated conflicts using Kingian principles.
Executive Assistant / Trainer
CT Center for Nonviolence
01.2014 - 06.2019
- Conducted youth and adult trainings focused on historical context, nonviolence theory, and peer mediation.
- Represented the organization at community events, promoting youth engagement and leadership.
- Trained and mentored five to 10 new personnel hired to fulfill various roles.
21st Century Lead Tutor
Owl Enrichment Center
09.2015 - 06.2018
- Supervised and supported youth development, academic support, and behavioral management for 20+ youth.
- Mediated peer conflicts and guided youth in setting personal and academic goals.
- Monitored group dynamics and encouraged cooperation and respect within teams.
New Business Specialist II
MetLife
01.2007 - 01.2013
- New Business Specialist II | 2007 – 2013
- Scrubbing/Quality Assurance Specialist | 2006 – 2007
- Technical & Procedural Support | 2006
- Imaging Specialist | 2006
Education
Bachelor's - Human Services
University of Phoenix
Phoenix01.2021
Leadership Development Program
TOW Youth Justice Institute
New Haven, CT01.2017
Civic Commitment
Parent Leadership Training Institute
Hartford01.2016
Human Services Program
Goodwin College
East Hartford, CT01.2015
Level 1 Certified Trainer - Nonviolence Practitioner/Facilitator
KINGIAN Nonviolence
West Hartford, CT01.2014
Skills
- Facilitated youth groups of 13–20
- Coordinating training sessions
- Issue awareness
- Data gathering
- Engaging presentation skills
- Trauma-informed care
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Clear communication skills
- Effective conflict resolution
- Establish rapport with clients
- Certified in mental health first aid
Timeline
Community Organizer / Youth Development Specialist
Blue Hills Civic Association
04.2021 - 04.2025
Nonviolence Lab Coordinator (CLHS)
CT Center for Nonviolence (CTCN)
09.2020 - 06.2021
Youth Trainer
CTCN – ThinKING Nonviolence
08.2019 - 06.2020
21st Century Lead Tutor
Owl Enrichment Center
09.2015 - 06.2018
Executive Assistant / Trainer
CT Center for Nonviolence
01.2014 - 06.2019
New Business Specialist II
MetLife
01.2007 - 01.2013
Bachelor's - Human Services
University of Phoenix
Leadership Development Program
TOW Youth Justice Institute
Civic Commitment
Parent Leadership Training Institute
Human Services Program
Goodwin College
Level 1 Certified Trainer - Nonviolence Practitioner/Facilitator
KINGIAN Nonviolence
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