Adults will simply listen at a groundbreaking event where youth will do all the talking.
The free, youth-led event called YOLO, Youth Offering Listening Opportunities, aims to bridge the gap between generations by facilitating candid conversations between young people and the adults in the community.
This unique initiative will feature a curated panel of youth who will share their life experiences and candidly answer any questions parents and caregivers in the community may have. The panel will offer valuable insights into their world while parents, caregivers, and service providers listen attentively.
Youth will be able to share their life experiences in a safe environment, as a way to support parents and caregivers understanding of the young people in their life and in general.
Topics of discussion will include strategies for improving communication with young people, navigating difficult conversations with sensitivity, addressing substance use, and avenues for further learning.
Guy Felicella, who regularly attends schools, conferences, and community events, to share his personal experience with addiction, harm reduction, stigma, homelessness, and recovery, will be a keynote speaker at the event.
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The event will be taking place in partnership with RISE, a collaborative initiative between the City of Maple Ridge and the Ridge Meadows RCMP, supported by the Building Safer Communities Fund.
The event is also being put on by Community Services and UPlan.
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YOLO: Youth Offering Listening Opportunities will be taking place Friday, April 26, at the Albion Community Centre, 24165 104 Ave, Maple Ridge.
There will be two 90-minute sessions to choose from: an afternoon session from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. or an evening session from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m..
A resource fair featuring various community partners will take place from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m..
Tickets for YOLO are available through Eventbrite, with free admission for all attendees including meals and YOLO swag.