Affirmations' youth program is in the midst of a significant re-structuring in an effort to best meet the needs of today's LGBTQ youth. The currently leaderless section of Ferndale's LGBT community center, and all its programming, will be postponed from May 18-June 6 and will resume after Motor City Pride weekend.
After months of research and discussion, Affirmations is implementing programming changes which draw from several recognized sources including Youth Empowerment and Youth Membership models and the Search Institute's 40 Developmental Assets for Adolescents. The institute is a non-profit organization known for its work with researching and recommending leadership and educational models to help children succeed.
Core components of the new model being implemented by Affirmations will include youth leadership, vocational and educational development, plus health education, risk reduction and disease prevention. Due to the staff training requirements and program re-structuring, the changes mean that Affirmations' youth program will be closed for the aforementioned three weeks. The last available programming before the break is Youth Prom. Tickets are still available for that event at http://www.goaffirmations.org, or from any youth program staff member.
During the three weeks, all programming will be canceled, including the afterschool drop-in zone and Friday and Saturday evening Youth Expansion Program nights.
Affirmations staff members are currently working with youth to identify alternative, safe spaces to socialize and meet up with friends, as well as to access needed resources and services. More information about the new program will be forthcoming. To learn more, or for help finding an alternative safe space for yourself, a friend, or a family member, call Affirmations at 248-398-7105.
Affirmations' Youth Program under construction
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