Registration is now underway for Canton’s Lead #LikeAGirl, Be A #ModelMan, and Youth Advisory Council Programs for the 2019-2020 school year. These free programs are available through The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center for teens who are interested in developing critical life skills, such as: self-confidence, interpersonal communication skills, managing stress, and leadership skills.
Lead #LikeAGirl was developed in 2015 by The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center, this free nine-month program enables participants to challenge themselves, discuss relevant issues that young girls face with their peers, and foster relationships with female role models within the community. This award-winning program serves a diverse group of young women ages 11-15 and is designed to change the way that these participants, and the community-at-large, think about what it means to Lead #LikeAGirl…and ultimately live #LikeAGirl.
Be A #ModelMan, established in 2016, is designed to grow six core values, including: integrity, empathy, compassion, inner strength, courage, and respect. Monthly one-day themed workshops are held from September through May and are designed to inform program participants ages 11-15 about community and government resources through tours and guest speakers. In addition, program curriculum encourages participants to interact and foster relations with public servants and community “heroes,” who embody what it means to Be A #ModelMan.
Canton’s Youth Advisory Council asserts itself as an influential group of area high school students who truly make a difference in their community. Members participate in community service projects, lead special events, participate in local decision making, and award annual grants to organizations that benefit Canton Youth.
“Each year it has been an amazing experience getting to work with such a bright and talented group of young people,” said Program Coordinator Laura Mortier. “We watch participants grow into confident, well-spoken, and understanding community members.”
Program participants must meet one of the following criteria in order to apply: reside in Canton, MI; attend a Canton school; or be a current member of The B.L.O.C.K Youth & Teen Center. Interested future candidates are encouraged to apply through The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center. Applications are currently available on The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center website at www.canton-mi.org/146 and must be submitted by September 13, 2019. Program space is limited, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Local volunteer and financial support have helped these programs expand their positive programming opportunities. Some current and past sponsors include: MASCO, Community Financial Credit Union, Eastern Michigan University, and the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for individuals, businesses, and foundations to assist in the development of future sessions. To become involved, please contact Laura Mortier at 734/394-5376 or email lmortier@canton-mi.org.
The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center, located on the third floor of the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road in Canton, MI, provides a fun, teen-friendly environment where students from ages 11-17 can participant in supervised afterschool programs, social events, and activities. For more information about Lead #LikeAGirl, Be A #ModelMan, The Youth Advisory Council or The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center, visit www.cantonfun.org or call 734/398-5570.