Bill was brought on board by a grant in 1994 and the Andover Youth Services was born. Immediately, Bill went to work on identifying issues and advocating for the youth of the town. Working out of his truck (for he had no office space yet), he went around the community introducing himself and more importantly, talking with the youth. He would ask them what they thought of the town and the common reply was, ". . . there's nothing to do!" Bill would patiently reply, "finish your sentence." Youth would look at him quizzically and wonder what he meant. He wanted young people to take responsibility for making things happen in their own community. This meant finishing your sentence, getting your ideas out, getting help and guidance, and finding ways to make the dream a reality. Bill was empowering youth and that was a new thing in the community.
Since that time, programs have been implemented, networks have been established, additional staff hired, advocacy for youth created, and most importantly, a sense of trust developed between the youth of Andover and the Youth Services Department.
Bill's vision, determination, passion, and perseverance have been essential to the growth and success of the Andover Youth Services.