Growing in Positive Ways

“It’s amazing you can take something awkward or difficult and make it fun and easy to talk about!”

Student responses like this are music to the ears of Positive Youth Development (PYD) staff who work to encourage teens to grow in positive ways and avoid the obstacles that can keep them from achieving their goals. Programs focused on healthy relationships, setting goals, substance use prevention and sexual risk avoidance are available in schools and community sites to not only provide education, but to increase awareness, conversation, and confidence.

PYD Group Specialists go above and beyond to provide more than just education. After a ZOOM session, a birthday cake was delivered to a 6th grade student who would not have had a celebration otherwise. Our staff are often present to chat during lunch or may check on a student who is struggling with a home situation or experimenting with substance use during school hours. Some PYD programs include videos and lessons which are incorporated into daily advisory periods. The Dean of Students at one school stated that Wedgwood’s PYD program had created a positive culture change.

Summer activities this year included a community movie in the park. Families enjoyed a movie together on a perfect summer night. Between the free popcorn and the children waving glowsticks in the air, it was clear that everyone had a good time. Community partners also helped with events. After allowing the children in a PYD Summer program to play in the spray of the Fire Department water hoses, the firefighter joked that she didn’t know who had more fun…the kids or her! (It’s possible it might have been the PYD Group Specialists who joined in on the fun as well.)

All of these fun activities have an important, meaningful impact. When kids feel supported and safe to have tough conversations, they are empowered to think about their goals and make healthy decisions. Our PYD team helps them develop the resiliency and skills they need to build a foundation for a brighter future.

Check out our Coffee Break Conversation with PYD Team Lead, Cathy Racalla on our YouTube channel, or wherever you get your podcasts!