The future well-being of a community depends not on strategic land development or even strict budgeting, but on the young people within that particular community. As more time and effort is used to develop the youth of today, there is a stronger likelihood that the future of the community will be in good hands.
Positive youth development can be made possible through learning about the young people within our community. On Nov.16, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the county’s 16th Annual Community Youth Forum will give youths and adults an opportunity to discuss youth-related issues, share ideas and develop strategies to promote the positive growth of local youth. The Why? We Hear You Community Youth Forum will be held at the Chesterfield Technical Center. Students, in both middle and high school parents and educators should attend this year’s forum.
Following a pizza dinner, free for all attending, the evening will include two discussion topics: Dodge the Pressure, a look at the pressures teens face today and how they can avoid feeling stressed, and Dare 2B U, a discussion about stereotypes of teens and what influences these stereotypes. Special guest, Dr. Linda Hancock, Director for the Office of Health Promotions, will be demonstrating the difference between perception and reality to help youths make healthier choices. Registration for the forum is requested, but not necessarily requir