Youth Empowered to Succeed Conference Dec. 6 in Aberdeen

FACE-IT (Faith Activated Community Empowering Intervention Training), in partnership with the Harford County Department of Community Services, will present the Annual Y.E.S. (Youth Empowered to Succeed) Conference 2008 entitled “I’m a Do Me” on Saturday, December 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Aberdeen Middle School, 111 Mount Royal Avenue in Aberdeen. Transportation is provided.

This event is for youth in grades 6-12, adults, and youth leaders. The day for the youth will consist of several workshops geared toward each audience that will include topics such as money management, drug use and abuse, and tactics relating to achieving goals and dreams. Testimonies will be heard in some of the workshops; there will also be a “guys-only” and a “girls-only” workshop featuring topics geared toward males and females, respectively. For the adults there will be an informational session entitled “It’s a Risky Business,” a workshop designed to help adults identify risky behaviors and warning signs to look for in order to prevent underage drinking, premarital sex, gang involvement, unhealthy internet use, and more.

Mr. LaMarr Darnell Shields, co-founder and president of the Urban Leadership Institute, LLC, will be the keynote speaker. Mr. Shields, described as a rising star among his peers, is nationally recognized for his achievements in the education and motivation of young people. He has spoken at the White House, lived in Latin America, has written several books and articles, and hosted a teen television show. Additionally, Mr. Shields founded the Paul Robeson Academic International School of Excellence (PRAISE) and taught at Johns Hopkins University.

Carol Taylor, President of FACE-IT, stated the conference is part of Harford County’s strategic plan to sponsor positive and safe events for youth and adults. “This will give participants the opportunity to focus on healthy behaviors, while understanding the dangers and consequences of using drugs and alcohol. We will also work to encourage youth to set goals and discover their unique talents in order to live a full, productive life.” This program is supported by a Criminal Justice Coordinating Council grant.

Lunch will be provided and the day includes entertainment, door prizes, and a professional photographer on-site to capture the memories of the day. The conference is free, but registration is required.

Additional partners include Harford County Public Schools, Harford County Local Management Board, Harford County Boys and Girls Club, Harford County Cancer & Tobacco Community Coalition, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

For further information or to register, please contact Robin Rossbach or Barbara Mason at 410-638-3333 or rarossbach@harfordcountymd.gov.