Organizers: A chance for youth to tell their story and for community to listen
By Allison Heidorn & Clare Desrosiers, ASAP Coalition
Special to the Pioneer Times
Are you concerned about your own kids, your neighbors’ kids, students in your classrooms, the youth in your congregation and youth in general? Do you wonder what they are thinking, feeling and doing?
In October 2008, SAD 29 partnered with ASAP Coalition to find the answers to these questions. Houlton youth in grades seven and 10 were asked to complete a survey about how they feel about their communities, drug and alcohol use, their future and so much more. The results are in. But, their story has not yet been heard. It is a story of struggles, triumphs and the ups and downs of life as a teenager living in this area.
For several months the SAD 29 Civil Rights Team, ASAP Coalition, Link For Hope Coalition, Healthy Aroostook, WAGM TV and WHOU have been working together on a Community Conversation Event scheduled for Aug. 22 at the Southside School in Houlton from 6–8 p.m. Students will finally get a chance to tell their story at this event.
It is clear from the students’ responses in the survey that Houlton has many supportive and caring adults who have, through kindness, love, guidance and support, played an integral role in shaping the lives of youth. As part of the Community Conversation Event we will be honoring eight local heroes who have not only helped to shape the lives of youth but have touched their entire community. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the unmasking of our own local superheroes. Who knows it might be you!
In addition to the superhero recognition, and the presentation of survey results, there will be games, food and prizes. It is sure to be an evening filled with fun for everyone from young children to the young at heart.
As adults in the community, we owe it to our youth to listen to what they have to say, make them feel valued for their opinions and empowered as they become part of the conversation. Positive change is possible, and the power rests in the people and places of the community that join together to embrace, invest in and engage with young people as resources and gifts.
Please join us on August 22 and show local youth you care about them and the story they have to tell. To nominate a local hero or for more information go to www.asapcoalition.com.