Think, Learn and Create Change Program provides a unique experience for teen members to become an advocate and take a stand for positive change in their teen communities.
Lafayette, LA – In partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America Think, Learn, Create Change Program, Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana hosted their first annual Teen Town Hall Takeover Event, a groundbreaking initiative designed to encourage and empower youth to speak up and make meaningful changes in their communities. Bringing together over 80 teen Club members, elected government officials, and guest speakers, the event brought new and insightful perspectives on how to become a positive advocate in their teen community.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America developed the Think, Learn, Create Change program to put youth at the center of their own advocacy experiences and support their ongoing, active engagement as local changemakers. This program challenges youth to:
“Think” about positive change to identify issues that spark their passions.
“Learn” how to educate themselves on issues, where to locate credible facts (ensuring their understanding comes from many perspectives), and who has the power to support their project.
“Create Change” by identifying tactics, implementing plans, determining metrics to monitor success, and driving change in local communities.
The Teen Town Hall Takeover Event aimed to provide a platform for our youth to voice their opinions, concerns, and ideas directly to the policymakers who shape their communities. Members welcomed Senator Gerald Boudreaux, Representative Brach Myers, Representative Jacob Landry, and Representative Troy Hebert who engaged in conversations of their interest in the government career path and what the next generation can do to continue to make to make positive changes. This unique opportunity allows teens to actively participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard on issues that matter most to them.
In addition to these important discussions, the event held feature guest speakers who addressed a variety of topics that affect teens today. Breakout Sessions included:
“Working Well with Others to Achieve Common Goals: How to be the Ultimate Team Player,” led by Trev Faulk and Kennan Brown
“Mental Wellness: A Journey Towards a Happier You,” led by the Jacob Crouch Foundation
“Self-Care, Because You Are Worth It!” led by Dr. Simpson
“Effects of Social Media,” led by Caroline Marcello
To conclude the Teen Town Hall Takeover Event, teens had an exciting lineup of activities designed to foster camaraderie and fun. Participants participated in field day challenges, thrilling water slides, and a TikTok dance challenge that promises to bring energy and creativity to the day.
“Teen advocacy empowers young voices, drives social change, and shapes a more inclusive future by leveraging the unique perspectives of the next generation. Through the support of Family Dollar, our teens have had the chance to actively participate in addressing issues that matter deeply to them. Legislators on site heard their concerns about mental health and engaged in discussions about enhancing suicide awareness within the community. Such opportunities demonstrate to our teens that they have the power to drive a meaningful change.” – Rhyan Wheeler, Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana President & CEO.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana empower their young people to visualize and prepare them for the brightest of futures. Our Clubs empower young people not only to see their potential, but to try believing in it, and to know with complete confidence that there are no limits to what they can accomplish. At the Boys & Girls Club, we endeavor to show our young people that they do not need to wait around to become leaders in their community – they are leaders now. Their thoughtful, innovative ideas and opinions are tremendously beneficial to those around them, especially their peers, and critical to the success and vibrancy of their community. There are no voices in a community more powerful than those of its young people.
Pictured (Left to Right): Brian Ford (Resource Development Director, BGCA), Representative Jacob Landry, Representative Brach Myers, Representative Troy Hebert, Senator Gerald Boudreaux, Rhyan Wheeler (President & CEO, BGCA)
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana
This year marks the 54th anniversary of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana operates under a mission to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Serving youth in 8 different locations, Boys & Girls Clubs provide opportunities through after school programs and summer camps with activities focusing on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles & Habits, and Good Character & Leadership.
If interested in supporting the Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcacadiana.com/donate or call 337-268-9555.
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