why y2y?
An opportunity for an unrivaled youth-led training experience awaits. This conference will be exciting, idea packed and full of creative new ways for youth and adults to work together in their communities. Based on the four components of effective prevention: Information, Personal Growth, Environmental Change and Drug-Free Alternatives, this unique training opportunity will allow youth to take the lead. Participants leave with new skills and a deeper personal commitment to their positive decision-making and ability to create change within their own schools and communities. Many youth-led programs began at a Youth to Youth conference and use it as a starting point or “battery charger” for the upcoming year.
Youth to Youth conferences address issues that are relevant to teens. This conference is designed for youth and their supporting adults to participate together in all aspects of the conference for a uniquely shared experience. Working side by side, they will have the opportunity to construct and/or revitalize a plan of action to implement back home. Adults will also have opportunities to network with other like-minded adults and to learn effective strategies to guide their teens to success.
Evaluations conduced by The Ohio State University show that youth attending the Youth to Youth Conference experience positive changes in their self-perceptions; specifically, in key areas such as knowledge about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, self-efficacy and leadership. These outcomes are met through uplifting small discussion groups, workshops conducted by youth and experts in the field, creative teambuilding, dynamic speakers, and of course, FUN.
Youth to Youth conferences are designed for drug-free community coalitions, school clubs, youth serving organizations, peer educators, faith-based groups, character and asset builders and any and every type of young person!
