About MAYSB
Promoting the dignity and inherent worth of Maryland's children, youth, and families through a network of community-based bureaus.
Our Mission
The Maryland Association of Youth Service Bureaus (MAYSB) centers its mission on strengthening families and empowering youth through prevention, intervention, and community-focused services. We value and serve youth and families across all backgrounds, including diverse races, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities.
Support & Advocacy
Providing counseling, advocacy, and education to at-risk youth and families.
Community-Based Focus
Utilizing local bureaus to provide accessible, tailored services.
Prevention
Enhancing health, safety, and well-being through proactive intervention.
Diversity & Equity
Serving youth and families across all backgrounds and abilities.
Our History
Youth Service Bureaus (YSBs) in Maryland emerged in the early 1970s as part of a broader shift in how communities responded to youth behavioral and legal issues.
At the time, there was growing concern that too many young people-especially those involved in minor offenses or family conflicts-were being pulled unnecessarily into the formal juvenile justice system. Influenced by national reforms and the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, Maryland began developing community-based alternatives focused on prevention, diversion, and family support.
Leadership & Board
Katrina Emerson
Co-Chair. Katrina Emerson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with the District Heights Family & Youth Services Bureau, where she began her career as an intern in 2012. She later served as a SMHART therapist providing school-based mental health services and continues to offer individual, group, and family counseling. In February 2022, she became Executive Director and also serves as Board Chair of the District Heights Youth Development Foundation. She is currently pursuing certification in Biofeedback training.
Ajah Doswell
Co-Chair. Ajah Doswell serves as the Chief Operating Officer for Doral Scholars in Baltimore City, bringing dedicated leadership and operational expertise to Maryland’s youth services network. As Co-Chair of MAYSB, she helps guide the association’s strategic initiatives and advocacy efforts across the state.