The central role that youth are playing in today’s social movements is nothing new. From the beginning, they have given life to these movements with their indomitable courage and passion, fresh insights and solutions, and unique perspectives and experiences. What fluctuates is our society’s attention to — and support for — youth voice and leadership. … Continued
Cultura, Organizing, Resistance and Action (CORA), Merced’s first-ever youth leadership academy was held last month over the course of two weekends. A diverse group of 12 young people — including several system-impacted and foster youth — attended from schools in the towns of Merced and Atwater. The majority had never participated in this kind of … Continued
“People look at Marin Oaks like its not a good school. I am so happy there. So many of us are seen as problems but we’re thriving there. We’re not a problem anymore.” Marin Oaks is a continuation school. Where the “bad” kids go in Marin County. The kids who can’t sit still, who disrupt … Continued
How about a round of applause, everyone? We deserve to congratulate ourselves. Over the last year, the Transportation Equity Allied Movement Coalition (TEAMC) along with our community partners — YOU — have been fighting the good fight to ensure that San Mateo County’s next transportation ballot measure moves for us: for youth, seniors, people with … Continued
May was Mental Health Awareness Month. For YLI youth leaders, it was a time not only to encourage vulnerable communities to access and practice preventative mental health services, but also to dig deeper and talk about how mental health services for substance use can be improved. Youth in Half Moon Bay and Pescadero embarked on … Continued
Ever ride the bus? When you take the Fresno Area Express (FAX), a would-be 20-minute car ride can easily turn into a 2 ½ journey depending on the bus route you take. Riders can wait up to an hour along certain routes, and the frequent stops all add up. Turns out, there’s nothing “Express” about … Continued
Last Wednesday, the Merced Girls & Womyn of Color (GWoC) stood up against sexual harassment in their schools — and WON. The June 13th Merced Union High School District (MUHSD) Board meeting was filled to capacity. Students and other community members wore t-shirts and carried signs. Brave young leaders stood up before the Board, their … Continued
There were impassioned speeches. Poetry. There was boisterous applause, loud whoops and cheers as youth grantees shared their visionary projects for community change. Bright smiles and cascades of laughter lit up the room as the young people triumphantly waved their grant checks in the air. The Grantee Kickoff is the highlight of BLING’s grant-making cycle. … Continued
