Champions for Youth

BE SAFE: How to Prevent Child Heat Stroke Deaths

2013-05-03T09:12:00.000-04:00

Written by: Kelly Doria, MCCOY, Inc. Board Member

Every year we hear tragic stories about well-meaning parents who forget to remove their children from their car, often resulting in fatal accidents. When I heard such stories, I frequently thought those are the same type of parents that let their children play with knives or don’t have adequate structure or supervision to ensure their children’s safety. Such thoughts were not really intended to be judgmental or unsympathetic, but more emphasized that such circumstances would never happen to me. That was of course, until the story hit closer to home. One of my husband’s childhood friends recently dealt with such tragedy (read story) and I finally realized that my initial feelings of denial could place my children at risk when there are some pretty simple actions to prevent such tragedy in my family.

Did you know:

· From 1990-2010 there were 606 child fatalities in the US due to heat stroke[1]

· Average number of child vehicular heat stroke deaths per year since 1998: 38 (one every 9 days)

· 19 States have laws that make it illegal to leave unattended children in a car, but Indiana has no such laws or proposed legislation[2]

As the summer months approach, I encourage parents to implement the principles of BE SAFE[3].

Back seat. Put something like a cell phone in the back seat that requires you to open the back door when you park.

Every child should be correctly restrained in the back seat.

Stuffed animal. Keep a stuffed animal in your child’s car seat. Place it on the front passenger seat as a reminder when your baby is in the back seat.

Ask your child care provider to call if your child hasn’t arrived on time.

Focus on driving. Avoid calls and texting.

Every time you park make it a routine to open the back door of your car.

[1] http://www.kidsandcars.org/userfiles/dangers/heat-stroke/heatstroke-map.pdf

[2] http://www.kidsandcars.org/state-laws.html

[3] KidsAndCars.org

Got Service Learning

2013-04-22T15:27:00.001-04:00

By: LaQuisha Glasco

Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the number of moments that take your breath away. – Unknown

What Happens When…?

A Social Work professor assigns an assignment that requires a social work student to work with a client that they may or may not know?

You get a MAPS GOAL DEVELOPMENT ASSIGNMENT!

Dr. Gentle – Genitty gave me an assignment that I would never forget. The assignment was called, “MAPS GOAL DEVELOPMENT.” I had to find someone to be a client for me and demonstrate my social work skills. Now, this may seem easy but it was not. I was actually helping someone with a real life issue and it finally hit me that I was going to be a factor for the choices she had to make.

This opportunity made me a better Social Worker. It confirmed my love for Social Work and my care for the people in the world. This service learning project helped me to imagine myself being into the field and made me more confident in skills that I once struggled to perfect.

333;background:white'> that take your breath away. – Unknown

What Happens When…?

A Social Work professor assigns an assignment that requires a social work student to work with a client that they may or may not know?

You get a MAPS GOAL DEVELOPMENT ASSIGNMENT!

Meet My Client Chasity

Chasity Armstrong is a freshman at IUPUI. She is majoring in Psychology and wants to work for the Police Department and the Firefighter Department.

in the world. This service learning project helped me to imagine myself being into the field and made me more confident in skills that I once struggled to perfect.
333;background:white'> that take your breath away. – Unknown

What Happens When…?

A Social Work professor assigns an assignment that requires a social work student to work with a client that they may or may not know?

You get a MAPS GOAL DEVELOPMENT ASSIGNMENT!

Marion County Youth Know how to OWN THEIRS!

2013-04-22T10:41:00.002-04:00

Friday, April 12^th was the submission deadline for the Own Your Future Media Arts Contest. Over 50 middle and high school students submitted writing, prezi presentation, and infographic entries explaining what it means to “Own Your Future.” We received some fantastic and inspiring responses that will continue to motivate school and community efforts to increase graduation rates and encourage student success. Below are some excerpts:

“I do have the support from my family to stay on the right path and strive for success. Their motivation is pretty much all I need. I feel like with the right mindset I can be whatever I want to be in life, and so can you. No one can tell you that you can’t.” – Excerpt from My Future by: Tyler Alums, Arsenal Tech High School

“You don’t get rhymes like me sleeping in class

So get your notebooks and pencils out of your bags

Take notes, pay attention, this is gonna be fast

We’re changing futures

Hope it suits ya

Let’s forget the past”

- Excerpt from Own Your Future (Rap) by: Sydney-Symone Tate, Decatur Central High School

“Success is not defined by the money you make but by the happiness you create. So the new equation looks like this: Success in school can bring success in life and success in life is defined by your joy…and with success and happiness I have owned my future.” – Excerpt from The Teenager by: Kristen Holston, North Central High School

“I currently am a youth entrepreneur and work with girls in grades 5^th – 9^th grade building self-esteem from the inside out through pageantry. I plan to continue to strive for excellence in every subject so that I can continue to help others grow.” – Excerpt from The Key to Life by: Kayanna Lovett, Fall Creek

We hope you will join our celebration of these students and their messages of empowerment at Crispus Attucks High School on April 27^th. The Media Arts Contest Award Ceremony follows directly after the Focus2020 Youth Chautauqua. Registration is still open—we’ll see you there!

Contributor: Anne West

2013-04-17T14:46:00.000-04:00

The Scoop on Teen Parenting

By: Leila Mortazavi

I made the decision to become a parent at 18 years old. Though unplanned, it was still a decision. Each year after I gave birth I did what I could (and still do) to support myself and my child in the best way I knew how. As a teen mom, transitioning to parenthood is a challenge. I found myself trying to adjust to taking care of myself and a newborn, but also dealing with the new label that had been placed upon me by society. From the assumed ignorance by nurses and health practitioners to dirty looks from ladies at the grocery store, I found myself drowning. I was drowning trying to find myself in a way that connected with my title as a mother and my age. One day I realized, though, we ALL have the same goal in life. No matter whom you are, what you are doing, or where you are going, the goal is the same. Happiness! One simple word that sums it all up. So in my quest to prove that I was a competent parent and good person with good morals, at some point I finally realized that I can relax because it doesn’t matter what everyone thinks. We all have our pasts and poor decision-making, and in the end we all just want to be happy.

So I continued on serving and bartending to make ends meet and realized at some point that my purpose in life was more than shaking up a good martini. I didn’t know what this purpose was, but I knew that it probably started with an education. I enrolled at Ivy Tech and began taking classes toward a nursing degree. One semester I registered too late and all of the classes were full, so I thought “Hey, let’s see what this human services class is all about.” DING DING DING- everything made sense. Everything came together. I found exactly what I wanted and had to do. So now, four years later, I have one year left until I graduate from the School of Social Work at IUPUI. I’m currently working at the most awesome nonprofit organization, Project Home Indy. Their mission is to provide a nurturing residential environment to enable homeless teenage girls who are pregnant or parenting to gain self-sufficiency. Hey, that kind of works for me doesn’t it? Working at Project Home allows me to use my experience combined with my education to help young mothers transition into parenthood, learn independent living skills, and sustain self-sufficiency. And if that sounds like a lot- it’s because it is! The girls amaze me every day, because they are amazing. So next time you see a young mom, try to shut down all of those judgmental thoughts that we all can’t help, and maybe give her a pat on the back. She’s just trying to be happy.

Bullying from one parent to another

2013-04-12T12:02:00.001-04:00

Bullying from one parent to another

The word “bully" is as prevalent as the words” I love you"

Daily our children go to school and are subjected to the values and parenting styles that differ from you as a parent. Differences in family values often spark bullying. The steps to assist our children are not victims of bullying vary, but I offer a few as a parent.

A Parent's Guiding Steps

1. Create a routine: Each day ask your child about their day and truly wait and listen to their responses and how they share the information with you (really listen). This will allow you to know when something different and you may learn a lot about your children from regularly asking that question. In fact, if becomes bonding time.

2. Writing it down: On the contrary, if you want you can ask your child to write down what happened during their day and encourage them not to leave anything out. This helps your child recall the events that led up to the bullying; it also helps them go to their teacher when it happens, instead of waiting and holding it in until they see you.

3. Investigate and Observe: After your child has told you about an incident at school, i.e. ... That a child keeps calling him / her names or insists on pushing them to the back of the line and laughing about it to all the other children in the class -- what can you do?

-- arrange to make a trip to your child's school and work with the school officials to be able to observe the inner- workings of the class room ( you'll be able to see very quickly who has the power; either the teacher or a specific child). After being an observer in the classroom, schedule a conference. Alert your child of the process.

4. Schedule a formal meeting: The first formal meeting should be an informative meeting to let the teacher and principal know that your child has told you about another child calling him/ her names and pushing him/ her to the end of the line and the other kids laughing. You are probably thinking to yourself, “Why have meetings with both the principal and the teacher?" This helps everyone be aware of the situation and monitor what's going on in the classroom as well as other classrooms that your child may attend throughout the day - music, art and P.E.

5. Tell your child you trust them: Most important- let your child know that you are on their side and you believe him/her. Explain that bullying is unacceptable from others, as well as from them. Lastly be active in demanding change for your child's environment.

By: Cara Burrus

The Monster We Created

2013-04-08T13:02:00.000-04:00

By Danielle Guerin

This past week, I had the privilege to attend the Senate Committee on Education and Career Development. My original plan was to attend in support of HB 1423 Antibullying, but since it was last on the schedule I had the joy to listen HB 1381 be argued.

HB 1381 has to do with public transfers. A school corporation has to set the amount of transfers they will accept and the date to when they will accept them. It also says they can’t deny a transfer except for capacity. This last part, where they could not deny transfers, was pretty contentious. One after one, school principles and head of school corporations came up to talk about why they opposed it. The number one reason they gave was because it would affect their graduation rates.

These leaders of schools were worried that students, who normally didn’t do well in school or were at a low performing school, would want to transfer to their school and not graduate on time. When asked, what they meant by on time, they answered 4 years. Nowhere in our laws does it require students to graduate after 4 years, it does affect the graduation rate after that, but that’s it.

These school leaders also hit on the issue of funding. They didn’t have enough funding to give extra attention to the struggling students or hire more teachers. I think someone should tell them that funding follows the students. These are public schools, which mean taxpayers pay for them so they should be able to send their child to any school they choose.

This conversation went round and round, until one senator got up and walked away clearly frustrated at these leaders. I was frustrated too. When did graduation rates become more important than the success of our students? Why are our school leaders actively trying to keep low performing students out of high performing schools? If the environment isn’t right for them to succeed, shouldn’t we encourage them to find the right one?

The environment that has been created in education today needs to be changed. We should encourage schools to stop worrying about their rates and funding and just worry about the students and their needs. Hopefully soon, something will change but I’m not holding my breath.

I’m happy to say that HB 1381 passed the committee 10-2, with an amendment and will now go to the Senate Floor. I will follow this bill and hopefully you will, to ensure that students have a choice.

Gratitude is a powerful thing.

2013-04-04T14:15:00.003-04:00

It’s amazing, the more thankful for what you have, the richer your life becomes. Living a life of gratitude can make you incredibly happy. For those of us who try to practice gratitude, some days are easier than others. For me, it’s a process of fits and starts. I go down the path, I fall off the path, I start back on the path. I guess that’s why they call it “practice.”

I recently heard a wonderful story of gratitude. A young woman was graduating from college and wanted to thank some of the individuals who made a difference in her college career and her life. She invited professors and mentors to a dinner and at the gathering, she expressed how she had lost an important person in her life at a very young age. Because of that, she came to realize that you must always express thanks to those who impact your life while they are with you, because you never know how short that time may be. She thanked each individual personally for the impact they made in her life. The grace and gratitude she shared brought everyone to tears and the impact of her gesture spread to others, who then shared their gratitude for those in their lives. Her gesture of gratitude spread.

I am on the MCCOY board of directors and I am grateful for the incredible work of the MCCOY staff and volunteers, the dedication and involvement of the youth workers who are out in the field every day, and the amazing impact that our youth have on our community. MCCOY is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. I’m honored to have the privilege of working alongside MCCOY staff, board members and volunteers as we make plans for upcoming celebrations of MCCOY’s impact for the past 20 years and it’s exciting to hear what’s planned for the future. While MCCOY is thanking the community for its support over the past 20 years, we also need to thank MCCOY for its tireless work in Marion County over the years.

If you have ever wondered what you can do to make a difference in your community—ever thought about getting involved but didn’t know how to get started—just take that first step. Making a difference in your community doesn’t need to be big, involve a lot of money or be a drain on your time. It can be simple—and fun! Come to a MCCOY event and bring a friend. Attend a training session. Come to the June golf outing or September Art of Youth event. Join a committee and volunteer your time and talent. Subscribe to our newsletter and share it with a friend. Thank a social worker by making a donation in their name. Just say “thanks, MCCOY!” If you don’t know how to get started, email me at sjudge@butler.edu and I’ll get you going.

Thank YOU for being a friend of MCCOY. Pass it along. 

Stephanie Judge Cripe
MCCOY Board Member

"The government is us; we are the government. You and I." Theodore Roosevelt

2013-03-28T14:36:00.003-04:00

I experienced a miracle today. I woke up in my warm, dry home, flipped a switch and the room filled with soft, warm, glorious light. I turned a spigot and fresh, clean, cold water flowed from my tap. I take these things for granted because I have had them all my life. Another miracle that I take for granted, like electricity and clean water, is our democratic form of government. And, like my lights and my water, I rarely give government a second thought. That is, until it stops working. I have been thinking about government a lot lately.

"The Government" has always seemed like an invisible force beyond my ability to control or affect, and I don't like being at the mercy of something I can't control. But, because of my involvement with MCCOY's Public Policy and Advocacy Committee, directed by Mindi Goodpaster, I am learning how advocacy can affect outcomes in the democratic process. I have watched others advocate for themselves, and have done it myself by sending emails and letters, making phone calls, and testifying at the Indiana Senate and House of Representatives. And, my friends, you, too, can become an advocate for what you believe in.

Recently I was proud to watch as members of MCCOY's Youth Advocacy Committee testified to the Indiana House of Representatives Education Committee regarding HB 1423, "Anti-Bullying". The students were bright, articulate, organized and impressive as they spoke, and the effect they had on the committee was obvious. Our side carried the day. The bill passed through the House and is now waiting to be heard by the Senate. These young citizens, Caleb Rohadfox, a senior at Decatur Central, Justin Winterrowd, a senior at Ben Davis, Ali Tahir, a senior from Zionsville High School and Shanze Tahir, also a senior at Zionsville High School, testified fearlessly, had their opinions heard, and positively influenced an issue that just last year did not even make it to the floor. Two of MCCOY's AmeriCorps Vista interns, Danielle Guerin and Anne West, work with the Y.A.C., but Anne told me that the Y.A.C. students did all of the prep work for their testimony on their own. When I think of the enthusiasm and energy these young citizens showed that day I feel more optimistic about the future of our country.

So what about you? Have you ever felt frustrated with the way your government works, or fails to work? What have you done about it? Would you like to do something about it if you could? It is easier than you might think to have a voice in your government. The first step is to find out who is the legislator for your district. Here's how I did it: type "Indiana General Assembly" into a search engine, then click on the tab that says "Who is your Legislator". You will be directed to the Indiana General Assembly District Lookup Service. You will then need to fill in the blank with your address, city, and zip code, then you will get a list of your state and federal legislators and their contact information. Or you can call 1-317-232-9400 for the Indiana State Senate, or 1-317-232-9600 for the House, and ask the operator for your state legislator's information. The next step is up to you. Write an email or a letter, or pick up the phone and make a call. Personally, I like to write out a formal letter, because that helps me organize my thoughts. Then I copy and paste the text of the letter into an email, then send the email, then mail the letter. If it is an issue I feel strongly about, I will call my legislator and speak to someone directly. Always stay respectful, and keep to one topic. If there is more than one topic on my mind, I write a second (or third) letter. I don't know if any of my efforts will ever have a positive result, but that does not really matter. What does matter is that I have done something to express my thoughts, and that my ideas reached my legislator. One state representative I spoke to told me that he considers one email, letter, or phone call to represent similar sentiments of 2,000 other people about any particular issue. Your congress person, local, state, or federal, want to hear from you.

Getting Youth Excited about Volunteerism

2013-03-28T12:14:00.002-04:00

By: Ivy McConnell
Public Relations Intern at MCCOY, Inc

According to Peter Levine, the director of Tufts University Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning, children who volunteer are more successful in school and more likely to graduate from high school and college.

Helping others can have a lasting impact on the life of your life. As volunteers, youth are able to assert their independence and make a real difference in their communities. They learn how to respect people with differences. They become more considerate of others. They develop communication and leadership skills. Youth that volunteers just one hour a week are 50% less likely to abuse drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, or engage in destructive behavior. They are more likely to do well in school and to graduate.

Parents/Guardians should teach their child that volunteering can help him establish a lifetime of friends, service and civil responsibility. Studies show that youth who volunteer are three times more likely to volunteer as adults. These young volunteers are more likely to vote and be philanthropic when they get older. If the parents are enthusiastic and volunteer with their child they will see the importance and value of giving through service.

These are some great ways to motivate youth to volunteer:

1. Encourage them to create their own volunteer project

They can create a name of the project and invite close friends and family join them at a local humane society or food bank. Afterwards they can go out for pizza and talk about their experience.

2. Recommend them to use their talents and work independently

If they love sing dance or play instruments, they go to a nursing home or a after-school program to entertain other youth

They can make blankets and donate it to animal shelter or children hospital

If they are an artist they can make greeting cards to the troops over seas and ask for a reply or donate their art to a local museum

3. Talk to them after their experience

Give them words of affirmation

Ask them detail questions about their experience

Ask them what else would they like to do

Suggest them to keep a journal of their experience and read it afterwards

Those are just a few ways to encourage youth to get involve in their communities People are more willing to volunteer if they are asked. If you or a teacher ask them to be a activist in their communities they are more likely to get involved.

ASK TODAY!

Summer learning can be a game changer

2013-03-27T15:23:00.001-04:00

Written by: Stephanie Freeman, Communications Director at MCCOY, Inc.

Now that spring is officially here (although it doesn’t feel like it yet), the next thing to anticipate for most youth is summer break. As a youth, I dreamt about long summer days, playing with friends, sleeping in, going to camp, and having no homework. However, now we know that “to succeed in school and life, children and young adults need ongoing opportunities to learn and practice essential skills. This is especially true during the summer months” (www.summerlearning.org).

According to the National Summer Learning Association, youth experience learning losses when they do not engage in educational activities during the summer, which leads to lower test scores and decreased graduation rates. Youth also are at risk of rapid weight gain during out-of-school time.

In Indianapolis, we are lucky to have many quality summer programs that combine both fun for youth as well as learning experiences. However, many families are not aware of these organizations and programs. For the past 17 years, MCCOY has produced, printed and made available to the community the Youth Activity Directory (YAD). The YAD is a comprehensive list of youth services that highlights activities such as: summer camps, fun family activities, leadership and volunteer opportunities, and educational/enrichment programs for youth. The 2013 YAD will be available for pick-up on April 8^th. To reserve your copies, fill-out the attached request form and email to Juli.

Make this summer memorable learning experience – and have fun while you’re at it!

Youth (Not) on the Job

2013-03-26T13:01:00.000-04:00

A 2012 Annie E. Casey Foundation report on Youth Work and Policy highlights the following statistics:

Youth Employment is at its lowest level since World War II
In Indiana only 27% of 16-19 year olds are employed and only 60% of 20-24 year olds
Nation-wide, 6.5 million people 16 to 24 years old are both out of school and out of work

The economic recession significantly affected rates of adult employment. But it also increased competition for low-wage, entry level jobs—the same jobs that once provided job experience for working youth. “Kids haven’t gotten anywhere in the economy’s recovery,” said Northeastern University Director of Labor and Market Studies, Andrew Sum. “Adults and older kids are filling those jobs. When kids go to look, they have so many people ahead of them in line they go to the back of the line.”

A study from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that underemployment in the youth population has lasting consequences. Youth who miss out on early work experience are more likely to experience unemployment later in life and are less likely to achieve higher levels of career attainment.

In my experience, employment opportunities in my teens helped build essential “soft-skills” like responsibility and determination, as well as basic budgeting and personal finance skills. These opportunities allowed me to demonstrate substantial work experience as I searched for work study jobs in college and after graduation. Moreover, those employment opportunities helped give me a sense of the kind of career path that would use my talents and bring me enjoyment—and also those career paths that would not suit me!

If you’re looking for a program that’s hitting the mark in preparing high school students for employment opportunities in high school and beyond, check out the Jobs For America’s Graduate’s Program which currently operates career and college preparation courses in several Indianapolis schools.

If you’re looking for a meaningful conversation for youth who are interested in learning more about youth entrepreneurship and job opportunities, check out the Real Talk Youth Summit put on by the KI Eco Center in partnership with the Mid North Quality of Life Plan. Topics for the April 13^th summit include youth entrepreneurship, jobs, drugs, and hip hop.

And if you’re looking for a way to advocate, why not contact the Mayor? There are plenty of examples mayors and municipal leaders across the US that are creating employment opportunities specifically for youth. Let’s make that happen in Indianapolis!

Show your appreciation to the troops

2013-03-26T12:51:00.002-04:00

Show your appreciation to the troops

Written by: Mandi Wainscott

As a Marine Wife, the recent death of the 7 seven Marines from Camp Lejeune has left an achingly big hole in my heart. All of the Marines that were killed were in their 20s, but one and he was only 19. Their lives were all cut too short. These Marines have family and friends that are now forced to grieve the loss of their loved one. I cannot even imagine the pain that they are feeling right now.

Being a Marine wife has taught me to be strong, independent, and patient. It did not come easy to me. I got married at 20 years old, moved across the country to California, had my husband deploy for the second time, and was left living alone across the country from my family and friends in just a few short months. It was definitely an adjustment.

I am so thankful that after three tours in Afghanistan and many field trainings that my husband is still here with me. Although, I still worry every time he leaves. I am so proud of my husband and everything he does. No matter how difficult the months apart are and how very little the communication between us is I would not change a thing. Experiencing a homecoming after not seeing them for so long is the best feeling in the world. It is definitely indescribable.

Many people do not realize the sacrifices that the men and women in uniform experience and others do not even take the time to even think about it. These men and women sacrifice their lives for you and this country and it is important to show them your appreciation. There are many different ways that you can show your appreciation to the military. You can adopt a soldier at www.adoptaussoldier.org. Adopting a soldier gives you the opportunity to send thank you letters and care packages to the soldiers deployed overseas. You can also volunteer or donate at a local military organization. You can even just extend your hand and say thanks. Simply acknowledging their service and thanking them personally means a great deal to them. It is important to stand by and support the troops because they sacrifice so much for all of us. What are other ways that you can think of to show your support?

Fight to be Fit

2013-03-25T18:15:00.001-04:00

In January, I decided that I wanted to live a healthier lifestyle. The main part of this change would be starting a new work out routine and fitting exercise into my schedule. Like many, I dreaded the typical gym scene and wanted to find a new and exciting option for my physical activity. This new adventure led me to Title Boxing Club. When I first came across boxing, I envisioned scenes from Rocky and bloody duals with muscular men. This was very intimidating for me, however, I decided to give the club I had found a tour. What I actually found was a laid-back environment, great staff, and a clean club to spend my daily hours dedicated to exercise. The classes are called "power hours" because you burn up to 1000 calories per session through boxing or kickboxing. What most surprised me about my new adventure was how much fun it could really be! The classes are tough, I won't lie, but they are definitely worth it and the instructors are awesome. The instructors are encouraging, motivating, and even make you laugh through the power hour. I have found boxing to be extremely stress-relieving on top of being a great workout. The classes are 7 days a week and are offered at a variety of times. (Your first power hour is FREE so try it out!) What I also like about Title Boxing Club is how diverse the people in the classes are. I have seen little kids do the classes with their parents, other college students, grandparents, everyone! I have lost almost twenty pounds from this experience and it has been awesome! More importantly, this experience has taught me how valuable trying new things can be. Even if the new experience seems scary or intimidating, it is important to step outside of our comfort zones because we never know what we might be missing out on.

Here is more information on the Title Boxing Club I attend :)
(317)-517-6129
2625 E. 62nd Street Suite 1007
Indianapolis, Indiana 46220

Gambling Among Our Youth

2013-03-20T13:20:00.002-04:00

Gambling Among Our Youth

Written by: Greg Henderson

Gambling has an established history in our country and community and is seen as a fun and mostly harmless pass time; most people never have issues related to gambling, but many in our state suffer from pathological and problem gambling. IPGAP (Indian Problem Gambling Awareness Program) estimates that roughly 1 out of every 100 Hoosiers qualifies as a pathological gambler and that 2-3 more qualify as problem gamblers. "Problem gambling is gambling behavior that causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social, spiritual or vocational." While this seems like a rather small population the problem is growing, and the largest numbers of new gamblers are adolescents.

This seems improbable, state casinos require proof of age to be admitted and lottery and scratch off tickets are only sold to adults. How then are our children even being exposed to gambling? Social media and video games have become the gateway to gambling behaviors.

Facebook is among the most commonly used social media sites and it hosts a wide array of free games, many of which are gambling types, free slots, poker, and match games are chief among them. the argument for these games being permissible is that no real currency ever changes hands, yet points are being wagered at each turn. These games indoctrinate children and lessen their sensitivity to losing "points", which is how most casino style games refer to the money deposited in them. Even the themes of many new casino games seem geared towards children.

Video games for home systems are also adding gambling components to many already established titles. Often times these are side games, games within the game that unlock new levels or add bonus points and gear, and have no direct relation to how the rest of the game operates. While no money is being wagered, items that are of value to the player certainly are. Winning at these games gives a false sense of being "lucky" and can motivate some to try their luck with real money, via internet gambling sites.

Internet gambling laws are confusing and complicated, but gaining access to these sites and playing with a credit card is far too easy. In most cases the only proof of age required is a drop down box. With just one click and mom or dad's credit card children have access to international high stakes betting. There is almost no over site in these virtual casinos and huge sums can be lost in minutes. This is yet another good reason to be active in communicating our values and expectations to our children and to closely monitor what's on our kids monitors.

2013 IN Youth Legislation

2013-03-19T10:02:00.002-04:00

Several bills that MCCOY has been advocating for have successfully crossed over and we are thankful to all of our friends and colleagues who have been helping to advocate with us. Right now, we are seeing tremendous momentum on children's issues and we are increasingly optimistic that this session will yield some great victories for children!

Below is a list of bills that MCCOY is following as they move forward.

MCCOY’s High Priority Bills

Senate Bill 1: School resource officers (Pete Miller, Arnold, Charbonneau, Nugent, Wyss, Hume, Pat Miller, Landske, Randolph)

Creates a two-year grant program for schools to hire school resource officers. Passed the Senate 43-7. House sponsors: Torr, Steurwald, Lawson, Behning

Senate Bill 125: Committee on child services oversight (Holdman, Broden, Lanane, Zakas, Steele, Head, Glick, Eckerty, Randolph, Hume, Pat Miller, Charbonneau, Stoops, Tomes)

Establishes the commission on improving the status of children in Indiana to: (1) study issues concerning vulnerable youth; (2) review legislation; (3) cooperate with other entities; and (4) take other actions relating to children. Establishes the subcommittee on child services oversight to: (1) review data reports from the department of child services (DCS); (2) review annual reports from the DCS ombudsman; (3)make recommendations to the commission to improve the delivery of child protection services; and (4) submit an annual report to the commission. Passed the Senate 50-0. House sponsors: Mahan, Kubacki

Senate Bill 305: Child care regulation (Holdman, Taylor, Kruse)

Specifies requirements that must be met by a child care provider as a condition of eligibility to receive a federal Child Care and Development Fund voucher payment. Sets forth a disciplinary process for suspension or revocation of eligibility. Passed the Senate 50-0. House sponsors: Mahan, Kubacki

Senate Bill 338: Chronic school absenteeism (Kruse, Yoder)

Requires the department of education to provide resources and guidance to school corporations concerning evidence-based practices and effective strategies to reduce absenteeism. Makes changes to the definition of: (1) chronic absenteeism; and (2) habitual truant. Requires school corporations and schools to identify contributing factors to absenteeism and to develop chronic absence reduction plans. Provides that a school corporation must include the number of students who are habitually truant in the school corporation's annual performance report. Provides that a school corporation's strategic and continuous school improvement plan must include objectives relating to the educational needs of students who are chronically absent or habitually truant from school. Requests the legislative council to establish a study committee to examine issues related to absenteeism. Passed the Senate 50-0. House sponsors: Behning, Porter, Rhoads, V. Smith

Senate Bill 352: School policies on gang activities (Hershman, Buck, Rogers, Randolph, Merritt, Kruse)

Allows the Indiana safe schools fund to be used to provide educational outreach and training to school personnel concerning the identification and prevention of, and intervention in, criminal gang activity. Requires the Indiana department of education (department) to develop model educational materials and a model policy concerning criminal gang activity. Requires the department, in collaboration with certain other agencies and organizations with expertise in criminal gang education, prevention, and intervention, to identify or develop model education materials and develop a model policy to address criminal gangs and criminal gang activity in schools. Requires the governing body of each school corporation to develop and maintain a criminal gang policy. Requires each school corporation to develop: (1) an educational criminal gang awareness program for students, school employees, and parents; and (2) a school employee development program to provide training to school employees in the implementation of the school corporation's criminal gang policy. Requires a school employee to report any incidence of suspected criminal gang activity, criminal gang intimidation, or criminal gang recruitment to the principal and the school safety specialist. Requires the state police department to conduct an assessment to map gang activity and identify existing services and programs and to report the results to the department by July 1, 2014. Passed the Senate 50-0. House sponsor: Truitt

House Bill 1004: Early education pilot program (Behning, Crouch, VanDenburgh, Bosma)

Establishes the early education scholarship pilot program to provide supplemental funding for eligible children receiving eligible services from certain early education providers. Establishes the early learning advisory committee. Provides that a child who receives an early education scholarship and meets certain other criteria is eligible for purposes of the school scholarship program. Passed the House 93-6. Senate sponsor: Pete Miller

House Bill 1015: School safety (Koch, Burton, Errington)

Urges the legislative council to establish an interim study committee to examine issues related to student discipline and safety. Passed the House 95-0. Senate sponsor: Kruse

House Bill 1123: Child fatality reviews and commission on children (Mahan, Kubacki, Riecken, Summers)

Establishes the commission on improving the status of children in Indiana (commission). Requires the commission to: (1) study and evaluate services, programs, and laws for certain youth; (2) establish the department of child services oversight subcommittee (subcommittee); (3) review and make recommendations concerning pending legislation; (4) promote information concerning vulnerable youth; (5) promote best practices, policies and programs; (6) cooperate with commissions, the executive branch of government, the judicial branch of government, stakeholders and members of the community; and (7) submit an annual report regarding the commission's work. Requires the subcommittee to (1) review reports from the department of child services; (2) review reports from the department of child services ombudsman; and (3) make recommendations to the commission to improve the delivery of child protection services. Establishes a local child fatality review team in each county. Establishes the statewide child fatality review committee and requires the committee to: (1) compile and analyze data recorded by local child fatality review teams; (2) review child mortality records; (3) assist local child fatality review teams; (4) assist in or conduct a review of the death of a child in certain circumstances; and (5) create strategies and make recommendations for the safety of children and prevention of serious injuries or deaths of children. Requires the state department of health to employ a state child fatality review coordinator. Passed the House 98-0. Senate sponsors: Holdman, Yoder, Lanane

House Bill 1423: Anti-bullying (Porter, Behning, Battles, Burton)

Requires the department of education, in consultation with school safety specialists and school counselors, to develop guidelines to assist school corporations and safe school committees in establishing bullying prevention programs, investigation and reporting procedures, and discipline rules. Requires each school corporation to include the number and nature of bullying incidents that occur within the school corporation on the school corporation's annual performance report. Requires each school corporation to provide training to school employees and volunteers concerning the school corporation's bullying prevention program, and to provide annual bullying prevention education to students. Modifies the definition of "bullying". Requires each school corporation to include detailed procedures for investigation and reporting of bullying behaviors in the school corporation's discipline rules. Requires each school corporation to include detailed procedures outlining the use of follow-up services for support services for the victim and bullying education for the bully in the school corporation's discipline rules. Sets out a bullying reporting requirement for each school corporation. Requires that if a board of trustees of a state educational institution elects to govern, by regulation or another means, the conduct of students, faculty, employees, and others on the property owned, used, or occupied by the state educational institution, the regulation must include a policy prohibiting bullying. Passed the House 77-17. Senate Sponsors: Wyss, Kruse, Rogers, Kenley

For questions about MCCOY's Advocacy efforts, please contact Mindi Goodpaster, Director of Public Policy & Advocacy at 317-921-1286 or mindi.goodpaster@mccoyouth.org.

2013-03-18T14:41:00.002-04:00

Growing up with pets taught me a great deal of responsibility, but it wasn't until I got my own dog that I realized the depth of the responsibilities that came along with a pet. My senior year my parents finally gave in and agreed to my never ending nagging to get my very own dog. As a family we always had dogs, cats, and even some 4-H pigs and goats, but this dog was going to be strictly mine, including his expenses, making sure he was exercised and eventually even taking him to school with me. I of course had to have one of the largest dog breeds there are, an English Mastiff. I still remember the night I went to adopt him, mid November and cold, but my heart could have burst from excitement. I decided on a fawn English Mastiff, who I named Zeke. At just 6 weeks old he tipped the scales at 18 pounds and grew before my eyes for the next several months. I will be the first to admit that I had no idea the amount of responsibilities caring for a dog, let alone a puppy would entail, not realizing the hard work that goes into caring for a pet is the underlining reason why so many pets are in shelters today.

Throughout the last two years I have volunteered at the Indianapolis Humane Society, which has opened my eyes to how many desperate pets are waiting for loving homes. According to Indianapolis Humane Society:

· The Indy Humane Society takes in roughly 10 animals per day, just over 3,000 per year
· Indy Humane can care for 250-275 animals at any given time
· In 2011 the Indianapolis Humane Society was able to help 2,361 cats and dogs

Too many people today use shelters across the country as “dumping grounds” to get rid of their pets. I've heard every excuse under the sun as to why a person is surrendering their pet such as, the dog got too big, we don’t have time for him anymore, he doesn't listen, she sheds too much and the most heartbreaking, I just don’t want him anymore. Don’t get me wrong I believe that in desperate situations the humane society is a great place to turn when someone can no longer care for their animal, but too often people just aren't prepared and don’t want to put the time or effort into the pet.

I cannot even fathom not having Zeke to come home to every day. Even though he has cost me a fortune over the last four years and hours worth of headaches, I wouldn't change a thing I've gone through. It really is true that a dog is man’s best friend. Please consider all the responsibilities that come along with a pet before getting one and adopt not shop!

Written By: Madison Mendenhall

2013-03-18T14:35:00.002-04:00

Teen Dating Violence: What the 2/3’s Can Do!

Representative Mark Green said, “If the numbers we see in domestic violence were applied to terrorism or gang violence, the entire country would be up in arms, and it would be the lead story on the news every night.” Domestic violence has spilled into the young adult world and the numbers are staggering. Teen dating violence is an issue nationwide and affects nearly 1.5 million high school students every year. 1 in 3 adolescents will experience dating violence, that statistic is far too high.

To help combat teen dating violence it is vital that we are able to help a friend in need in an effective manner. 1 in 3 adolescents will experience violence, but that leaves 2 out of 3 adolescents to be supporters. If you find yourself supporting a friend or family member remember these following guidelines to help your loved one.

•Don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend who you think needs help. Tell them you're concerned for their safety and want to help.

•Be supportive and listen patiently. Acknowledge their feelings and be respectful of their decisions.

•Help your friend recognize that the abuse is not “normal” and is NOT their fault. Everyone deserves a healthy, non-violent relationship.

•Focus on your friend or family member, not the abusive partner. Even if your loved one stays with their partner, it's important they still feel comfortable talking to you about it.

•Connect your friend to resources in their community that can give them information and guidance. Remember, loveisrespect.org can help.

•Even when you feel like there’s nothing you can do, don’t forget that by being supportive and caring -- you're already doing a lot.

Remember to be supportive and non-judgmental when helping your loved one through their abusive relationship. Together we can stop teen dating violence.

Written By: Erin Sass

Reference:

http://www.loveisrespect.org/get-help/help-others/help-a-friend

Spring Forward: The Mayoral Vision for Indianapolis

2013-03-12T23:45:00.004-04:00

Mayor Greg Ballard delivered his State of the City Address this past Friday, March 8^th. He has unveiled quite a few plans that will make Indiana the first to take a swing at two ventures: improving energy sources and reforming education. While these are not new concepts, the ways of going about them are well…spring time fresh. Other parts of the mayor’s goals to improve the city include bettering our parks as well as the transit system.

Blossoming projects: The Mayor has proudly announced that Indiana is the first state to have an executive order to reconstruct energy as we know it. Claiming, “America is funding both sides of the war on terror”, the Mayor has decided to begin developing a model for change right here in the city. By 2025, there will be only electric vehicles being bought by car dealers; a fleet of the large government vehicles (i.e. snow plows) all being powered by low compression fuel; and every police car will be electric and getting 40-50 miles per gallon. I wonder how the House and Senate felt about getting bypassed in this matter…perhaps a future blog, yes? Well, if you insist…

In education, Indianapolis is the first in the nation to lead as intense of an education reform as is about to be carried out. Mayor Ballard is actively working to bring highly qualified teachers to the city. He continued to explain that teachers will be attracted to Indianapolis through the city’s partnerships with national education programs. Mr. Mayor did not address, however, the failure of the Project School. As a major advocate for charter schools, this was an interesting tidbit left out. Moreover, there was some complaint that Mayor Ballard did not speak on how he was going to make sure current teachers were being empowered and maintained instead of making it seem that a whole new fleet of educators were needed. What about our local untapped resources? After all, Ball State, Indiana University and Purdue University power the nation.

On the environmental piece, Mayor Ballard announced the $10 million endowment Eli Lilly has donated as a means of improving Indy Parks. I am sure no one is protesting new playgrounds and better facilities. (Think of the children, you scrooge!) It also means more tourist attractions which can bring in revenue. Good thinking! Make a return on that investment! Two thumbs up, Mr. Mayor.

The big red bow on all of these endeavors is Mayor Ballard’s vision to improve the transit system. He explained that studies show fresh young talent not wanting to live in Indianapolis because they do not want to own a car. With the price of gas and car-related expenses, who can blame them? Thus, the entire future of Indianapolis is moving to cities with better public transportation systems. Mayor Ballard demonstrated his dedication to the goal by tying in emotional appeal: imagine catching the number nine bus from the downtown park where you just watched an outdoor movie with your kids all the way up to Carmel…what an experience that will be. Well, thus far, experience is the best word to describe that transit.

Overall, Mayor Ballard appears to have laid out an actionable plan for the city. One where the end can justify the means, but the process will have the final say. As for the executive order goes, we’re all aboard, obviously.

Here’s to a better Indianapolis!

Reclaiming

2013-03-08T15:25:00.000-05:00

While reading Profanity: Offensive Language from Kory Floyd (2011), I came across with the word Reclaiming. According to Floyd “some social groups have recognized that they can reduce the negative effects of certain profane terms themselves by making the terms more commonplace, thus lowering or eliminating their shock value” (Floyd, 2011, p. 190). When the part “… eliminating their (negative words) shocking values, it gave me an understanding that words do have a powerful, and effective meaning towards a person. We often use negative words to degrade, intimidate, and dehumanize people on the basis of their gender, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, race, disability status, or political or moral view (Floyd, 2011, p. 190). The question that I had was why we say words, how affective can it be towards a person, what are the possible solutions?.

Hateful words as stated above are to degrade, intimidate, and dehumanize people. We as a society at time joke with certain words, because that is what the society. It has become a norm in particular society. Our society such as school, organization, associations, clubs, friends, and family members have an effect on what we say, and to whom we say it to. But the question is why we say negative words. We say words manly because we feel empowered to, and we feel that the opposite that is the victim of the negative words are less valued than whoever is saying the words. Abnormality can also be a major effect on a society, so the only way to distract the abnormality is by name calling so that one can feel bad about themselves.

The effect of negative words can be damage, harm, hinder, depress, upset, disrupt, cripple, and at time cause suicidal thoughts towards others. Groups such as the LGBT community, African-American, Hispanics, Jewish, Native Americans, and immigrants are mostly subject to discrimination and negative name calling. Bad connotation words can have a negative effect on these group members. Some of the effect is retaliation from society. Some might even ‘kill’ if these negative words are use towards them or others. Many of these minority groups face every day with bad perception, discrimination, and name calling, while society expect them to put a smile in their faces, and agreeing on their terms.

The question that I have is what are the possible solutions for those who are affected by insulting and negative words? Can we turn negative into positive? Some are asking me, what do you mean if you can turn negative into positive? My hypothesis for this confiding problem is turning negative words into positive ones. According to Floyd (2011), “when homosexuals call one another ‘queers’, their intent is not to cause insult but, rather, to remove the power to insult from the word’” (p. 190). Why not turn negative words into positive one, and change the value that it holds?

I believe that we should decrease the value of negative words that we think that is degrading minorities. Negative words have power to depress, hinder, upset, disrupt, and harm many. We should decrease these powers by decreasing its value in society. Reclaiming, would serve as a major solution to derogatory words towards minority and other groups that are being discriminated on.

Reference

Floyd, K. (2011). Ivy tech distance education comm 102 statewide online course. (p. 190). Shelbyville: McGraw Hill's Connect.

http://img0055.popscreencdn.com/103394631_fighting-words-the-politics-of-hateful-speech-laurence-r.jpg

The Legislative Looking Glass: Policies Impacting Indiana's Children

2013-03-06T14:46:00.000-05:00

The first interaction can prove to be toxic.

Like when I met you.

It birthed a situation so chaotic,

I felt consumed wholly.

Never had a person’s interest in me proved to be so lethal,

Clouding my vision of a hopeful future,

Just hearing your name was torture,

The anxiety was wrenching.

Suicide felt more like a friend than a threat,

I had never known darkness…

Until I had a bully.

The Marion County Commission on Youth is working to combat the act of dehumanization we all know as bullying. It is pervasive and toxic. Unfortunately, according to the Center for Disease Control, Indiana ranks third among the United States for bullying incidents. Victims of bullying often lead pessimistic lives or may even commit suicide because of self-loathing thoughts which attack their minds. House Bill 1423 is the legislation currently proposed as a means to bring solace and security to thousands of Indiana’s children and teens. Drafted by Representative Greg Porter, in coordination with over 25 local and state organizations, it will ensure that schools have a published policy, thorough education and effective intervention strategies to address bullying. This can be the change Indiana needs as well as the resuscitation for restoring life to Indiana’s future.

Working along with House Bill 1423 is House Bill 1015: School Safety. School safety looks to ensure the protection of more than just students; it brings security to the staff, as well. House Bill 1015 would create a study committee focused on school discipline. Where have schools succeeded and where have schools failed? In a time where teachers can become the victims of ill-will just like students, this bill researches strategies of peace and hope for a system that used to promote and emphasize humanity. Schools were once the catalyst of society changing initiatives. When faced with the Great Depression and pervasive food shortages, schools worked to grow gardens and increase their communities’ well-being. And when America made the inspiring decision to be an integrated society, schools were among the first to exercise the practice. However, today, many walk into and conceptualize schools as uninspiring, dreadful and hopeless. Why? Because all too often the students have not been taught to be advocates for positive change in their environments; instead, they have been taught to fight and manipulate for control over their support systems. House Bill 1015 focuses on learning how to empower schools in order to produce a generation of young people who know how to support their educators, their peers and their communities. In supporting House Bill 1015, you support a better Indiana.

Finally, Marion County Commission on Youth has taken a vested interest in Senate Bill 1. It is a bill authorizing schools to have a police officer in the building during the entire school day. This potential law is a two year grant program created in an effort to make schools safer. However, is the placement of a law officer empowering or discouraging to our young people? If there is already widespread misunderstanding leading to bullying between students, what happens if the misunderstanding is transferred or is already inherent in the police officer? Moreover, what about feelings of criminalization children can feel because there is an armed guard in their schools? Remember, children behave how they are treated. There are a number of issues concerning this legislation that should give parents as well as community leaders pause. MCCOY is being vigilant in regards to Senate Bill 1 and is collaborating with professionals in an attempt to modify the legislation. It is in the best interest for the future of our state to invest in the future of this bill.

*Picture from http://www.glogster.com/mackdm/anti-bullying-/g-6l4oikepe8tr87ld2m61aa0

Diverse Family Structures & Television

2013-03-04T21:27:00.001-05:00

Historically in television sitcoms the family structure presented is the “traditional family”, mom, dad, and kids. This can be seen in staples like Leave it to Beaver. This structure is even portrayed in cartoons. Even the whacky Simpsons and the futuristic Jetsons portray this family structure. While these shows and others like them are ones that we love I feel like more and more they do not represent the reality of the family structures that more commonly exist today, which are diverse and varying. I am pleased to say that in recent years this has been changing, and becoming more aligned with real life families today. I think that this advancement is important because all family structures should be able to feel represented and to view a family that they feel is relatable to their own. Also, acceptance of these diverse structures in the media can help to educate others on what a family can consist of, and that it is not always what we have been taught and/or exposed to.

This is a topic that interests me because I have always loved television shows and somehow manage to get sucked into all of them that I watch, but also, because I come from a diverse family structure. I do have a mom and dad and two sisters, but my dad has a wife who is not my mom and my mom has girlfriend who she lives with and has been with for years. To me this has always been normal, but I remember watching television, as a child and wondering why none of the families were like mine. I am pleased to say that now I can see a lot progress made on this front.

The first example that comes to mind is the appropriately titled, Modern Family. In this show several different diverse, immediate family structures are represented within the context of one extended family. The traditional family is represented with Phil, Claire, and their three children. There is also Mitch, who is Claire’s brother, and Cam who are a gay couple in a committed relationship who have adopted their daughter, Lily, from China. Then there are Jay (Claire and Mitch’s father) and Gloria who represent a deviation from tradition in a few different ways. First of all, this is Jay’s second marriage and he is much older than Gloria. She has a son who lives with them, and they have a baby together. Also, Jay is Caucasian and Gloria is Columbian, and I do not feel like bi-racial couples and families are often represented on television. I think this show does an excellent job of showing diverse family structures in a realistic but still entertaining way. The only common family structure that you really do not see represented in Modern Family is a single-parent family. The first show that I thought of when I thought about this was Gilmore Girls, which is completely centered on a single mother and her relationship with her daughter.

I think that shows like these are important so that all families are represented. I am glad to see more and more of them popping up so that children today in these families do not have to wonder like I did as a child.

Teens: make the call to save a life

2013-02-27T16:19:00.001-05:00

Written by: Stephanie Freeman

Did you know that more than two dozen Hoosiers under the age of 21 have lost their lives due to alcohol poisoning since 2004, according to the Department of Health. Many of these deaths could have been prevented if bystanders sought medical attention.

Indiana lawmakers have passed a bill written by State Senator Rodric Bray in hopes to save future lives lost to underage drinking. The law provides immunity for some alcohol-related offenses to Hoosiers who request medical assistance for someone in need or receive medical assistance due to request by someone else.

About the Indiana Lifeline Law:

The Lifeline Law provides immunity for the crimes of public intoxication, minor possession, minor consumption, and minor transportation alcohol to persons who reveal themselves to law enforcement while seeking medical assistance for a person suffering from an alcohol-related health emergency.
In order to receive immunity, the person must demonstrate that they are acting in good faith by completing ALL of the following:
- Providing their full name any other relevant information requested by law enforcement officers
- Remaining on the scene until law enforcement and emergency medical assistance arrives
- Cooperating with authorities on the scene
The law will not interfere with law enforcement procedures or limit the ability to prosecute for other criminal offenses such as providing to a minor, operating while intoxicated, or possession of a controlled substance.

What to know:

· Make the Call – f someone appears to be in need of medical attention, never hesitate to call 911, even if you're not sure how serious the condition is. One call can make all the difference.

· Get Help - Don't go anywhere. Always stay with the person needing help. You may be able to provide valuable information and assist authorities until the situation has been resolved.

· Save a Life - The Lifeline Law makes it clear to young adults throughout Indiana that our priority is to get professional medical care to those who need it, no matter the circumstances.

iNDYfRINGE is shining light on the issues of teen alcohol abuse with their new play, Alky. The play was written by Jerome McDonought turns the spotlight on alcohol as it affects young adults. The play is presented by the Young Actors Theatre, The Indianapolis Public Library, and The Indiana Coalition to Improve Adolescent Health. The play can be seen on Tuesday, March 5^th at 6 p.m. or Sunday, March 10^th at 3 p.m. at Clowes Auditorium at Central Library for FREE Learn more at: http://indyfringe.org/juvie-alky-2-teen-issues-one-acts.

Remember to make the call to save a life.

Make a Difference~ Be a Mentor

2013-02-25T15:05:00.000-05:00

I grew up in a part of town that would be considered well-off and financially stable. I was given more opportunities than most kids at my age. One of the opportunities I was given that I took advantage of was being mentored. I have had a mentor since I was a freshman in high school and I am now a junior in college. Recently, I have noticed how much of an impact my mentor has made on my life and how she has helped shape me into the person I am today. Being mentored is something I took for granted at first, but I have come to appreciate and really value my time with my mentor.

I have also had the opportunity to be a mentor to many college students, students at an inner-city school, and junior high school girls at my church. I do not say this to be prideful, but I can see first-hand the impact that can be made as a mentor. I have been a mentor to first year college students and because of this I have helped students find their niche and find ways to get involved. I have also tutored and mentored students at an inner-city school. This experience opened my eyes up to a world that I had never been exposed to before and it was intimidating at first, but I soon realized that I could still help the students and be available for them. Because of this experience I learned that sometimes kids just need someone to talk to and listen to them, and this is something I have carried with me in all of my mentoring experiences. I also realized that this trait was something that I valued in my mentor.

I write this to share my experiences of being a mentor and being mentored, but to also push others to be a mentor as well. My mentor made a huge impact on my life and helped me when I needed it. There is joy and satisfaction that comes from being a mentor even though it may not always be easy. It really is possible to make a difference in someone's life and if given the opportunity I would encourage anyone to take it. Being a mentor comes with challenges, but taking the time to establish a relationship with someone that truly needs it is a rewarding experience. Many children in this city really need extra attention or someone to listen to them, and there are people out there that would make excellent mentors. I hope that by sharing some of my experiences of mentoring and being mentored someone would be inspired to go out and be a mentor themselves.

Sneak Peek!

2013-02-22T14:13:00.000-05:00

In a little over 10 months, we will all have a very important birthday to celebrate…MCCOY’s!

December 2013 is the 20th Anniversary of the Marion County Commission on Youth Inc! I have been working on a research project to examine some of the early,foundational MCCOY documents, specifically the “Blueprint for Action: Places to Go—A strategic Plan for Developing Free Time Opportunities and Activities for Youth in Marion County.”

In the Blueprint, a working committee defined eight key goals to strengthen the landscape for free time opportunities for youth in Marion County. As a part of my research, I’m interviewing youth development professionals to examine which of those goals and action steps have been achieved—and in which areas we still have work to do. We're also working with a School of Public and Environmental Affairs Capstone team from IUPUI to help expand our research to youth and parents. Our research will culminate in a Blueprint for Action 2013!

Parsing through the Blueprint for Action document is fascinating for SO many reasons, here are my top three:

I can see which MCCOY initiatives really gained traction and have created a lasting impact on the lives of youth in Marion County.
I get to meet some of the most committed, caring individuals around—a cadre of Marion County Youth Development Professionals!
I get to ask youth workers about their feedback on the status of these goals.

They have given invaluable insight into the status of youth and families in Marion County. Here's a sneak peek at one of my favorite quotes:

“I think the need has been identified really well, but the process of making Marion County a youth friendly community has not been matched or supported by the youth of 2013. I think the strategies that are employed are old strategies from 20 years ago. It’s almost like, if you’re starting the sentence with ‘when we were young…’ you’re already on the wrong track!”

You’ll have to read the Blueprint for Action – 2013 when it’s released in December for more quotes, perspectives, priorities, and collective goals for making Marion County a “youth-friendly” community that supports the positive development of every child!

Youth Learning about Black History Month

2013-02-21T18:32:00.004-05:00

By: Ivy McConnell
Public Relations Intern for MCCOY, Inc.

Every year we as a nation celebrates Black History Month. We see it in the media, work, home and mostly at school. At school, Black History Month is usually filled educational events, films, programs to to enlighten children on their history and where they came from. A great way to learn about the things our ancestors had to go through. If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't be where we are today.

Recently, a friend of mines that is a 3rd grade teacher told me she was disappointed because she could not celebrate Black History in her class because its excluded the children that are not black. Her supervisor made it a rule for the teachers and cancelled all the programs planned for the month. As a bi-racial teacher she wanted to share the history of what black people contribute to our society and the courage taken to follow their dreams.

People like Garrett Augustus Morgan created the traffic light and Benjamin Banneker, inventor of the clock; are people we usually don't read about in the history books or get recognition for things we currently depend on everyday. As a civic society we should embrace all history and educate the youth. Not only teachers and professors but parents should have a part of sharing their history along with their ancestors journey. We all can learn something from Black History Month. Love and embrace your culture. History is history!