Saugus Youth & Recreation

Saugus Youth and Recreation Center

400 Central Street

Saugus, MA 01906

Tel: 781-231-4022

Fax: 781-231-4100

General E-Mail: youthrec@saugus-ma.gov

Director:

Crystal Cakounes, ccakounes@saugus-ma.gov

Contact Us

About the Department

Per the Charter, the Youth and Recreation Commission is established for the purpose of

carrying out programs included but not limited to those designed to meet the opportunities,

challenges, and problems of the youth in the Town of Saugus in conjunction with any similar

or related programs of any agency of the Commonwealth or any agency of the Federal

Government. The Youth Commission was established around 1993/1994 in response to the

youth risk behavior survey administered by the Saugus School District, in 1992. This survey

showed alarming data, which ranked Saugus youth a third higher than the national average,

as more likely to engage in high-risk behavior. At some point, the Youth Commission

absorbed Parks & Recreation, their responsibilities, and their budget. However, the budget

for Parks & Recreation was eliminated, but not their responsibilities. With that being said,

we have been running and maintaining numerous programs and activities that cater to both

mission statements of the Parks & Recreation and the Youth Commission. These programs

have been run without the full funding that the Department had originally received. The

Saugus Youth & Recreation Department is constantly looking for new ways to create fun and

exciting programs for the youth of Saugus. We also provide job opportunities for the older

age groups. Older teens are taught job ethics and how to act and grow in their workplace.

Volunteer options are offered as well. We kept the cost for these programs extremely low to

accommodate families in these hard times

Lead Staff: Lauren Sanford, lsanford@saugus-ma.gov

Programs Cordinator Emily Grant, egrant@saugus-ma.gov

It is with extreme sadness, we announce the passing of our director of 17 years and very good friend, Greg Nickolas. A kind and selfless man willing to help anyone in need, while expecting nothing in return. A true Sachem, Greg had pride in our Town and went above and beyond his duties to serve the youth and families of Saugus. An incredible member of our community who helped so many people throughout the years. Funny, wise, and slightly sassy, Greg had an awesome personality and aura that made all feel welcome. Never judging, always accepting, and forever teaching us lessons we will never forget. Greg will always be remembered for his over-the-top personality, his kind heart, his strong dedication and above all, his true friendship. We will miss Greg every minute of every day. We will strive hard to honor him and continue to do the wonderful work he has done for the Town of Saugus.

In loving Memory of Gregory Nickolas May 22, 1963 - September 28, 2021