Young people from Western Maine plan to convene for a new youth-led conference, “Now is Our Time.”
Hosted by Healthy Community Coalition of Greater Franklin County and Maine Youth Action Network, the conference is set to take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 29, at Kineowatha Park, 90 High St. in Wilton.
The event, which has been planned by a group of four local young people, will provide opportunities to explore and carry out restorative practices: an approach for schools and communities for the prevention of potential conflicts.
Maine Youth Action Network utilizes restorative practices in partnership with young people to guide participants through the work of reestablishing relationships with one another and to their school, and support those participants to promote inclusive changes within their communities. Rooted in indigenous community traditions and philosophies, systems like criminal justice and education institutions are utilizing restorative models as an alternative to punitive systems.
During the event, youth will engage in small group activities to strengthen their communication skills, guide them to explore root causes of the issues they experience, and create opportunities for connection and meaning. Throughout the day, participants can also engage in games and opportunities to meet other young people passionate about making change in their communities.
Any person between the ages of 10 and 18 who lives in Oxford, Franklin and Androscoggin counties is welcome to attend. Healthy Community Coalition and Maine Youth Action Network will also organize transportation for participants to get to and from the conference.
To register for the conference, visit maineyouthactionnetwork.formstack.com.
For more information, email to Jason Labbe at jlabbe@fchn.org.
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