FORT STEWART, Ga. - Youth did more than socialize at the Fort Stewart Youth Action Council quarterly meeting, March 10, at the Fort Stewart Youth Center, building 7338.
The purpose is clear: to provide a venue where military-connected youth can discuss their quality of life issues or concerns in an informal setting, without their parents around.
"The council has been meeting a little more than three years and has evolved into a setting where youth can learn about upcoming monthly trips," said Dave Smith, Youth Education Support Services program director.
"This is not like a classroom environment, but interactive and hopefully fun," he added.
The group is made up of local high school pre-teens and teens (grades 8-12). After an ice breaker, which was led by Smith, got the teens out of their seats and kicked off the meeting.
Both old and new business was discussed to include upcoming youth sponsorship trips, and the new Liberty Transit system. Issues were also shared and solutions were given.
"If you don't say anything, no one will never know how to fix the problem," said Keith Murphy, program director for HIRED! Apprenticeship Program.
Participants brainstormed on ideas of how to get more youth involved with the council and subsequent events.
Alexander Demmings, 15 years old, hoped to gain valuable experience, and become more involved with the community.
Teens collectively suggested using eye-catching flyers, the use of the school liaison office Facebook page, Twitter, and word of mouth to learn about events.
"We are trying to get more people to come and enjoy being young", said member Jherminee O'Neal, age 18. "We need support from the community to have faith and believe in us."
"Kids don't have to be what society makes them out to be", added O'Neal. "Teens should get more involved and try to improve the community and be a part of something."
Some of the upcoming youth sponsorship trips include Cumberland Island, March 26 which is completely filled; an Outdoor Wildlife Jamboree, April 1 and a kayaking/aquarium visit to Skidaway Island, May 14.
"I want kids to have the opportunity to get into activities that they will enjoy," said Smith. "The whole focus is to provide a range of constructive leisure time options for kids."
The next Youth Action Council meeting will be held June 2 at 5:00 p.m. in the same location. To learn more information about upcoming youth specific events, visit www.stewartmwr.com/index.php/child_youth_school_services/school_transition_support/youth_sponsorship/.
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