SCOPE organization recently had an amazing opportunity to take a group of six individuals—staff, youth, and parents—to the highly anticipated Vive18 Conference in Arizona. This marks SCOPE's first effort to involve youth in a prevention conference, opening a new chapter in encouraging young people’s voices in important community discussions.
The selection process was engaging. Students showcased their desire to attend by writing essays about their motivations and learning goals. The chosen participants presented these essays to the Thrive Youth Council, building excitement for their upcoming journey.
A New Chapter in Youth Engagement
The Vive18 Conference centered around youth prevention, an urgent topic that affects communities worldwide. Understanding the significance of integrating youth voices in these dialogues, SCOPE created a platform for young attendees to learn, share, and contribute actively.
SCOPE aimed to select participants who were truly passionate about initiating change in their communities. The writing process allowed students to express their motivations clearly, which were then shared with the Thrive Youth Council, fostering a sense of purpose.
As the conference approached, staff members prepared the youth by aligning sessions that nurtured personal growth and raised awareness of prevention strategies. They focused on topics such as mental health, substance abuse prevention, and fostering safe environments for peers.
Experiencing the Thrive Mindset
Vive18 served as a vibrant hub for new ideas, meaningful discussions, and transformative experiences. Attendees stepped into an environment that promotes youth empowerment and teamwork.
“This is the first time I’ve been able to attend something like this,” said one of the youth attendees. “I’m looking forward to discovering new strategies to connect with my peers and support one another effectively.”
During workshops, participants learned the impact of community involvement and how one person can influence change. For instance, a workshop on suicide prevention highlighted that 90% of those who seek help do not harm themselves, but awareness and support play crucial roles in saving lives.
Youth attendees were not just passive listeners; they enriched discussions with their insights. For example, during a session on creating safe spaces, one youth shared success stories from their school, inspiring others to replicate similar initiatives in their own communities.
Building Connections Beyond the Conference
Networking was one of the standout aspects of Vive18. Youth, along with parents and staff, connected with participants who shared a common goal of prevention.
Many new friendships formed, and discussions sparked around ways to advocate for positive change in their communities. A couple of participants even collaborated on future projects, blending ideas from different states to create more comprehensive prevention strategies.
“I loved meeting new friends who share my passion for change,” another youth participant said. “It made me realize that we can all contribute something unique to our communities.”
These connections enhanced the conference experience and created the foundation for lasting support systems, extending the benefits of the event well beyond its duration.
Reflections and Presentations to Thrive Youth Council
Upon returning from the Vive18 Conference, the youth attendees were eager to share their newfound knowledge and experiences. They delivered presentations to the Thrive Youth Council, discussing which sessions resonated with them and how they plan to implement these strategies back home.
The presentations were full of energy, with each youth expressing what prevention methods they found most impactful.
This lively exchange not only inspired new initiatives but also underscored the critical role youth play in driving prevention efforts in their communities.
The Ripple Effect of Empowerment
SCOPE’s decision to involve youth in the Vive18 Conference has set a meaningful precedent. By empowering young individuals to voice their thoughts on prevention, SCOPE highlights their significant role in fostering healthier community environments.
The growth stories, friendships, and discussions shared by attendees emphasize the potential when youth are given platforms for their voices. They have the capability to generate innovative solutions to longstanding issues, illustrating the need for continued engagement.
As SCOPE reflects on this remarkable experience, it becomes clear that their commitment to youth engagement will expand. Building on the momentum from Vive18 could lead to ongoing projects that keep the discussions and actions alive.
Moving Forward Together
SCOPE’s journey to the Vive18 Conference is a strong testament to their belief in the potential of youth engagement and education. By including youth participants and amplifying their voices in discussions about prevention, SCOPE is paving the way for future initiatives.
The excitement, desire for learning, and newfound connections continue to empower both the attendees and the SCOPE community. Together, they can work towards a brighter, healthier future for everyone.
Looking ahead, SCOPE remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders in prevention. The experience gained at Vive18 serves as a foundation for countless opportunities that aim to promote personal development while addressing the vital needs of their communities.