Today, August 12, is International Youth Day.
The day was founded in 1999 by the United Nations and is meant to help all of us assess our investment in – and our commitment to – today’s youth – and to incentivize all of us to be more involved in the well being of the next generation.
Development, education and well being for all youth – this is something we here at One Heartland know a little bit about.
For over 20 years we have made a priority the educational components of our camps. Camp Hollywood HEART, for instance – which is happening this week in Malibu, Calif. – features arts based career assistance from trained mentors and staff for youth affected by HIV/AIDS. And Camp True Colors – our camp for LGBTQ youth – has two educational sessions every single day of camp. The first session is Queer Comfort Time, during which guest speakers present on a variety of topics (safe sex, positive relationships, transgender education topics, body image, etc.). The second, Campfire Discussions, are mediator-led group discussions on a particular topic.
All of our programs focus on providing the next generation of young people with the tools necessary to live successful and productive lives. It is at the core of our mission.
In other words, every day is Youth Day at One Heartland.
If you are interested in helping us continue to provide these invaluable camp experienes for even more of today’s young people, you may donate at any time via our website.
And Happy International Youth Day!
