Youth summit to educate children about safety

By Owen Boss

FITCHBURG— Local students will have the opportunity Friday to attend informational workshops aimed toward educating them about preparing for college and safety issues. Coordinator of the ninth annual Youth Leadership Summit at Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School Dean Bailey said that he was amazed with the number of students willing to participate in the program, and attributed the success to the hard work provided by numerous volunteers in the community. “The fact that this is the ninth year we’ve been able to hold the summit is incredible,” said Mr. Bailey. “So many people have devoted their time, resources, and themselves to come in and help make this program a success. The community has really gotten behind us in making this happen, and the staff working at LUK has been spectacular.” Mr. Bailey added that this event isn’t only for students in the area, it is a free event that is going to be made available to the general public. “This event is going to be open to any youth in the area between the ages of 10 and 19,” said Mr. Bailey, “We are encouraging families to come with their children, and anyone not necessarily educated at one of our local schools, in order to attend the event they just have to be a resident of north central Massachusetts.” The youth summit will include a speech made by keynote speaker Mayor Lisa Wong, as well as various workshops targeted at educating local youth about safe sex, keeping a healthy self-image, and various vocational skills including beaded jewelry, barbering as a profession, and sports broadcasting. At the youth summit, 15 exemplary leadership awards will be presented to local youth who have demonstrated outstanding skills in leadership and community service. The event will offer participants snacks and lunch, and will culminate with a dance hosted by local radio station JAM’N 94.5’s D.J. Maverick. oboss@thegardnernews.com

Appeared on Page 3 on 4/24/2008 (Vol. 206 No. 98)