Folks, this isn’t a Bus Project event, but my good buddy and incredible advocate Martin Rafferty is asking those who care about what young residents in Lane County have to say to join them for the Youth Empowerment Summit. His words below:

It’s time to come together to support the youth of our community. If you support or work in the youth service field you should come to see this elaborate event. Fully created and lead by youth and funded by multiple organizations this will be a great opportunity for networking and community building. If you can’t make it May 9th pass this letter along to someone who can!

Say YES!

Youth know what is happening in our community and have fresh ideas to address social issues. Eight groups of youth allied with community organizations have prepared presentations on solutions to social issues in our community.

Please come take part in this unique opportunity to hear from proactive young leaders. The Youth Empowerment Summit (YES) is an opportunity for youth to create change by presenting to community decision makers on youth identified community issues.

YES is a youth led event which is designed to stimulate awareness by giving voice to youth as they speak about issues of oppression and create positive community solutions.

Where: The Shedd Institute for the Arts
868 High St. (Use High St. Entrance), Eugene

When: Friday, May 9th 2008
12:00 – 7:00pm (breakout sessions from 1:40pm to 4:30pm)
Lunch will be provided at noon.

Schedule for the day:
12:00 – Lunch
12:30-1:30 – Opening Presentation
1:40-3:00 – First Breakout Session
Juventud FACETA
Youth Council
LGBTQ Issues
Sexual Health

3:10-4:30 – Second Breakout Session
Communities Empowering Youth (CEY)
Oregon Family Support Network (OFSN) And MindFreedom International
ACT-SO
Student Peace Alliance

4:30-5:00 – Closing Presentation
5:00-7:00 – Networking Opportunity and Open Mic Celebration

Please RSVP to Cheryl Bondy by May 2nd
682-2331 or cheryl.bondy@co.lane.or.us

If you need a translator, sign language interpreter, large print material, or other accommodations, please call or email Cheryl Bondy.