One only needs to watch, listen or read the news of any given week to see that young people have had a pretty bad rap for a while now. Depressing youth social problems and tragedy, mixed up with a plethora of misguided assumptions and generalizations have made for challenging times among many young people and wider communities alike. But while it may be easier to conclude that the situation is too futile and thus pass it over to marinate in the “too hard basket”, I urge you peel off that futile looking rind and join many of us (particularly this week) to remember the core of hope, vitality, challenge and growth that many young people quite naturally bring.
Due to the fact that young people thrive when there are supportive, encouraging and positive people in their lives, the theme of this Youth Week 2008 is “Relationships”.
The vision from this week’s celebration is to promote "a country where young people are vibrant and optimistic through being supported and encouraged to take up challenges".
There are many things that you can do to celebrate young people, which may include:
- Encouraging young people to present their talents, share ideas and focus on the positive aspects of being young
- Recognising young people's contribution to the community
- Promoting information and services available to youth
- Raising the profile of youth projects
- Providing an opportunity for discussion of youth issues
For a more information on Youth Week 2008, including the low-down of things happening around the country do check out
www.youthweek.co.nz(…and if you haven’t already got a hoodie, don’t forget to get one for Friday!)
Happy Youth Week!
TeRito.
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