FEBRUARY 21, 2025 RECOVERY Home of New Vision invests in youth JONATHAN GLASS Groundcover contributor Home of New Vision, serving Washtenaw and Jackson counties, is spearheading an initiative to create growth opportunities for Ypsilanti Township’s youth while reducing the risk of substance use. HNV is dedicated to empowering the next generation to embrace a brighter future. Robert Colley, Program Manager for the Washtenaw Recovery Advocacy Project, emphasized the program’s mission. “Our goal is to inspire and equip young people with the tools they need to lead healthy, successful lives. By fostering leadership, building life skills, and promoting community engagement, we aim to support the next generation in reaching their full potential,” Colley said. The youth initiative incorporates several key strategies, including weekly community outreach and monthly youth workshops. Colley described the workshops as crucial, stating, “These workshops provide a safe space for young people to grow, express themselves, and become active contributors to their communities.” HNV's outreach specialists regularly connect with residents in neighborhoods across the township. This outreach ensures that resources are accessible without making assumptions about who may need support, reducing the risk of overdoses and promoting overall community well-being. As part of the initiative, HNV will install Narcan distribution boxes in high-traffic areas, including the Holmes Road Community Network Center and the Tyler Road Community Resource Center. These boxes will offer 24/7 access to fentanyl testing strips and Narcan, giving community members essential tools to prevent overdoses. Geared toward Ypsilanti’s 10- to 18-year-old population, the monthly workshops will focus on skill building, leadership, resilience and substance use prevention. Each two-hour workshop will integrate art and music with multifaceted skill development. Workshop topics include public speaking, professional networking, self-advocacy with local leaders, professional mentorship and urban gardening. Colley commented, “We want to foster a lasting sense of trust and collaboration between Ypsilanti Township youth and local government, ensuring they feel empowered to engage, advocate and contribute to their community.” The workshops will provide a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where creativity and self-expression are celebrated. Activities such as community quilts, vision boards, and advocacy through art will encourage critical thinking, teamwork and creativity. Additionally, workshops will address the underlying causes of substance use by teaching coping strategies and stress management techniques, empowering participants to make healthier choices. The workshops will also offer career exploration opportunities, helping participants envision and work toward future goals. Youth will learn skills such as resume writing, crafting professional cover letters, and interviewing techniques. By partnering with local organizations, HNV ensures access to career resources and mentorship opportunities. Colley elaborated on the program’s transformative impact. “Many participants may never have been exposed to the careers or opportunities we’re highlighting. By introducing them to these paths, we help them envision a future they might not have considered and equip them with the tools to pursue it,” he said. At the end of its first year, participants will leave the program with enhanced communication skills, leadership abilities, emotional resilience and a strong sense of self-advocacy. They will also learn to navigate community resources and establish support networks. Another key feature of the program is the involvement of local professionals who will share their experiences and provide guidance during workshops. “We believe that exposing youth to diverse opportunities and relatable success stories inspires them to envision their potential and take meaningful steps toward their goals,” Colley stated. The professionals participating will include local first responders, armed forces personnel, therapists, social workers, educators and representatives of local colleges and universities. Colley concluded, “This program is about more than equipping youth with practical skills—it’s about fostering a mindset of empowerment and responsibility. We want the next generation to feel confident engaging with local government, advocating for change, and actively participating in their community’s progress. By focusing on education, trust and engagement, we’re preparing young people to lead and ensuring a healthier, more connected Ypsilanti Township.” GROUNDCOVER NEWS What’s Happening at the Ann Arbor District Library Open 10am–8pm Daily Hang out in any of our five locations across town, browsing books, magazines, newspapers, and more, or check out movies, CDs, art prints, musical instruments, and home tools— you name it! Study and meeting rooms, fast and free WiFi, and plenty of places to sit and hang out Public Computers The AADL has public-access Internet computers available for use by both cardholders and noncardholders at all five locations. Each station has USB ports, headphone jacks, and some of the fastest wifi speeds in town! Preschool Storytimes and Baby Playgroups Join our storytellers on weekdays inside the library for fun songs, stories, puppets, and moement! Visit aadl.org/storytimes to view a list of upcoming in-person storytimes and playgroups. You can also stream and download our recorded storytimes online at AADL.TV. FEATURED EVENT 5 Sunday, March 9 • 11am–4pm Downtown Library We’re observing Mario Day with themed activities! Join us for Bingo, warp pipe bean bag toss, photo ops, crafts, MarioKart, and more. Costumes are welcome! For a full list of the day’s activities, visit aadl.org/marioday.
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