UNITY affiliated youth councils around the country are finding ways to meet to discuss their initiatives and continue their community service projects. Youth on the Yavapai Apache Nation in Arizona met last month via Zoom video conferencing. They are re-organizing as a youth council. By the end of the meeting, the youth decided to work on positive messaging in the community. Some committed to creating posters with positive messages to hang in the community. Others said they would write notes to include in food baskets that were being distributed to the elders. UNITY’s executive director Mary Kim Titla was invited to be a special guest at the meeting.
“I was quite impressed with the youth who joined the meeting. They
were engaged and seemed excited to connect and brainstorm about how
they can make a difference in their community. One in person invited
her grandmother to share some words. The elder expressed her personal
challenges dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic. She tearfully shared
how active she once was but like many was now practicing social
distancing by staying at home. She encouraged the youth to continue
with their good deeds,” said Titla.
Advisors in the Southern Plains Region created a private group via
Facebook and are also meeting regularly through the Zoom platform.
UNITY’s executive director made a surprise appearance during the
group’s recent meeting.
“Our UNITY advisors are awesome. I wanted them to know how much I
appreciate them and the example they’re setting for others. This is a
great way to connect with advisors in the region. They were also among
the first to know about details regarding the upcoming national
virtual conference. A big thanks to all our advisors who are doing the
best they can to keep their youth motivated and engaged, said Titla.
How are you meeting in your community or region? Please share your
story and photos with us! Email LorenAshley Buford at
la.buford@unityinc.org.