Project FRIENDS

by Katie Ogden,
Youth Member on
NLC's Council on
Youth, Education,
and Families

Last November, my youth council applied for a grant from the Washington County Commission on Youth and Families. Our request was accepted and we were rushed to choose a project. Topics for the grant project varied from teen alcohol abuse to environmental awareness. After many meetings spent searching for a unique challenge, many of us on the Tualatin Youth Advisory Council agreed to tackle something new. Several attempts have been made to open up the eyes of single-minded high school students. But, the fact is, that teenagers are not easily persuaded. We decided to make a difference in the lives of fifth graders. Nearing the end of their elementary school career, we wanted to ease their transition into the sometimes overwhelming and complicated new environment- middle school. As a council, we felt that one of the unfortunate changes in middle school is how students form cliques and stereotypes. Through our own experiences and observations, we realized that this was an issue in need of attention.

For a full day, 365 local fifth grade students attended the workshop entitled FRIENDS, "Finding Relations In Every New Diverse Student." Fifth graders met other students going to the same middle school in the upcoming year. They interacted doing role playing activities, group discussion, and playing thought provoking games. For an entire school day, we taught them ways to make friends and prevent stereotypes. One student commented on the day by saying how she feels excited for middle school, and not afraid anymore. Another added that she had not only learned what a stereotype was, but why they are harmful to others. In addition, we answered multiplying questions and curiosities of the middle school world. With an opening session, three break out sessions, lunch, and a closing session, it was a busy day for everyone!

Despite the long preparation hours and stressful logistics, it was a success! From a welcoming introduction by the city's council president, Ed Truax, to a closing session full of energy and excitement for the upcoming school year, I enjoyed every part of the day. It was truly heartwarming to see the smiles on the kids' faces. This event especially made me realize just how effective a community can be when everyone pulls together. Teachers, city council members, parent volunteers, and advisers together made this possible. Even local businesses showed their support by generously donating lunches for the students.

Comparing this workshop to our past grant projects, this event surpasses them all. I want to encourage other youth councils across the country to "think outside the box", and discover ways to make changes in those issues most ignored. Even if your youth council is only a few members in a small city, I dare you to step up to the plate and make a change in your community. You'll be amazed at what a community can do. And... as youth, our voices matter. If you have any questions about my youth council's project FRIENDS, or just want to chat about youth council projects, feel free to email me at katie.ogden@juno.com.