YOUTH POWER!

YOUTH POWER! is the New York State network of young people who have been labeled and are seeking change. Together, we have decided to speak up about our experiences because no one knows what it is like for us better than we do. Through peer-to-peer...

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Youth Policy Update: Mental Health Education in Schools

On May 7, 2018 the New York State Education Board of Regents permanently adopted proposed amendments to health education that require schools to:

include mental health and the relation of physical and mental health; and

be designed to enhance student understanding, attitudes and behaviors that promote health, well-being and human dignity.

Implementation of mental health education in schools begins July 2018. Click here for the Mental Health Education one-pager.

YP!’s Youth Engagement Specialist, Amanda Davidson, joined fellow council members on this date to amplify the voices of our network and present recommendations of the Mental Health Education Advisory Council to the NYS Board of Regents. The council recommendations highlighted several key factors to support a successful implementation of curriculum, including the need for overall school climate to be addressed and a focus on lifelong tools to support mental health as an integral part of overall health and wellness. For a one-pager on the council’s recommendations, click here.

A School Mental Health Resource and Training Center will be established and available to all New York State public and private schools at no cost for three years. This resource and training center will help schools identify and develop mental health curricula, support staff training, and assist with identifying local mental health services for students in need. The Resource Center will be established and maintained by the Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS). Click here for more information on the resource center.

As implementation begins, it is important that young people and their families are at the tables guiding this process. Schools are encouraged to find ways to involve all stakeholders in their community and we encourage young people and their families to speak up, speak out, and get involved with your school’s implementation efforts. Your experiences are meaningful and your voice is important!

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Commissioner Sullivan sits down with Kathleen Liedka, a Parent Adviser out of our Central NY Field Office to discuss the important role families' play during the treatment of individuals with mental health diagnoses.

By: Amanda Davidson On April 9th one of our very own Parent Advisors, Kathleen Liedka, sat down with the Office of Mental Health's Commissioner, Ann M. Sullivan MD, and discussed the importance of family involvement in treatment and the work Kathleen does. Kathleen went on to describe the roles of Family Advocates and Parent Advisors while explaining her own experiences as a parent who once went through struggles with her son without a Family Peer Advocate.

Kathleen is a proud mom of her 24 year old son who struggles with mental health challenges and substance use.  At his age of 14 years old, Kathleen noticed concerning behavior and knew some of the things he was talking about in reflection to his body were obvious to him but not her. Realizing her concern grew more serious, she brought him to their doctors and they "physically couldn't find anything that was concerning" but that "they see where she was worried about a few different things."

After being handed a piece of paper with multiple psychiatrists' names on it, they both were struggling to grasp what was happening. The doctors explained that they had some mental health concerns that were going on. Later on they went home to find out that ¾ of the numbers were disconnected. During that period of time without any help she says "He had really, really been struggling, so I contacted my local county mental health crisis hotline number and I was put on hold, and I had to call back and someone answered me and transferred me to a voicemail." Sadly, Kathleen didn't know where to turn next.

After months of intense hard work and processes, her son had several trips to CPAP and made several calls to authorities who stated "there's nothing we can do unless he is a danger to himself or others." In the end, the authorities had to come to take her son to CPAP and ultimately transfer him to his first inpatient children psychiatric placement. "They did the intake and then took him behind this door. I gave him a hug and a kiss and told him I loved him and I would see him soon and he went into the unit. I was the only one in the foyer, and I remember thinking to myself "Where is he going? What does it look like behind that door? Who is going to talk to him? Does he think we dropped him off here? Will they feed him? Where is he going to sleep?" It was a horrifying feeling for a parent, and for a mother and I felt I failed him." Soon after realizing her last straw was used, Kathleen stayed in the foyer and sobbed. "I literally sobbed for the very first time, I was just defeated."

Kathleen says "As I sat there a woman came up and she sat next to me and she put her and on my hand and she said "Mom, how are you doing?" and I didn't know what to say. For the very first time, in this journey, which had been months, somebody asked me how I was and I looked at her and said "I'm not well at all."" The woman introduced herself and explained that she was a family peer advocate and her role to assist Kathleen with answering all her questions, to guide her through the process. Kathleen described the woman as very honest and that the woman said "it was going to be a very rough road but you and your son will get through this. You and your family will get through this." Kathleen says "Maybe not right in that moment did I discover that I needed to do this but she gave me such hope. If I could do anything to help a family member or a care giver of a child, not have to feel this alone then this is why this is happening to my family."

Unfortunately what was described happens far too often. She knew they were doing the best they could, but she knew her and her son needed more help.

If Kathleen could have it her way, there would be a Family Peer Advocate in every facility! "If you have an advocate there for you upon intake, wherever that might be, or even if they're doing outpatient type services to guide the family so they can educate themselves on what their child is going through and that they can work together with the treatment team for the child as the family, together so that everyone can stay together."

[youthpowerny]

Provide Feedback on How New York Comic Con and Other Events can be More Accessible!: By Joseph Munisteri

For those of you who have attended panels and workshops I have led or even just talked with me, you know that I am always up to something awesome! This time around it's an accessibility campaign that I am currently working on. 

Let me give a bit of background on this. This October, as it happens every October, New York Comic Con returns to the Javits Center in New York City! But this year it will be different and much more difficult for people with both visible and invisible disabilities to navigate, de-stress when dealing with crowds, etc., as the Javits Center is undergoing construction. 

To cope with this I have been in contact with the organizers of the event, and although they may not be able to do anything about the construction, they can create an awareness campaign for attendees about visible disabilities such as impaired movement, assistive technologies, people with mobility devices, visual impairments or even something like anxiety and depression. I have launched a survey that you can take and give feedback on what helps you cope during events, this feedback will, in turn, be used to create an awareness campaign for attendees and event organizers. As often times people don't realize that they can prevent an anxiety attack, a blocked hallway etc. Simply just by being aware of their surroundings and also allowing event organizers to have a better understanding of how they can make events better such as quiet rooms, larger hallways etc. 

The survey can be taken at  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z6TFS7L

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University of YOUTH POWER! (UYP) Call for Professors and Activity Leaders

UYP is the premiere youth peer leadership conference modeled after a college experience. This conference provides Youth Peer Advocates and change agents the opportunity to build skills and expand their professional network. Young people ages 18 to 30 can register with a major of Peer Advocacy or Systems Advocacy.

We are currently seeking Professors and Activity Leaders. Proposals should address the specific needs of each major or provide advanced and beginner courses to fit the diverse needs of students. Proposals can also include creative and engaging activities for all students to participate in. Proposals are due by Monday, February 6, 2017.

For more information or to download the forms visit www.YOUTHPOWERNY.org/uyp/

[youthpowerny]

Celebrating Disability Mentoring Day

By Christina Narkon As a mentor and also as a young professional, I can say with certainty that disability mentoring changes lives in profound ways. I first came to be a mentor while in college. I originally planned on becoming an attorney, but now I am now pursuing my Master’s in Special Education. The reason that I do not have a Juris Doctorate? Disability mentoring. The reason I made the career change was simple: after I paired up with my mentee, both of our lives changed in incredible ways! I knew that disability mentoring was something that I could and should make into a daily occurrence as a special education teacher. When most people hear that I’m a mentor they get immediate visions of me sitting in a library guiding a student through a tough math problem. As a mentor, some days we do this! But more often, my mentee and I spend time talking through everyday highs and lows, trouble with friends, tension with a teacher, or struggles at home. While our life paths looked different from afar, my mentee learned early on that I had also struggled with a learning disability while in school. Our mentorship wasn’t me, as some college-educated lady, telling him what to do to “fix” his life. Instead, our relationship is more of a partnership; having gone through similar situations myself just years prior, I have been able to pass down tools that I have learned to my mentee. These skills and tools have ranged from self-calming or “grounding” techniques, homework and study habits, and resume and job-finding skills. More importantly than me passing on blocks of tools for my mentee to build life skills and healthy habits, or setting career and college goals, I know that I can be the person that I never had growing up for my mentee: someone who knows where you’ve been, can see where you are, and celebrates and uplifts the person you are at in your heart.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, with Disability Mentoring Day being celebrating on Wednesday, October 19th. To learn more, visit https://www.dol.gov/odep/topics/ndeam/

[youthpowerny]

Decision 2016: The Youth and Disability Vote - Melanie Hecker

It is time once again to elect The President of the United States. In the past and present, both youth and disabled voters have not had fully accessible and inclusive voting opportunities. As a result, youth and disabled voter turnouts have historically been low. In 2014, the last Federal election, youth turnout was only 19.9% of youth aged 18-30, the lowest it has ever been for Federal elections. In 2012, 57.2% of people with disabilities did not vote, with 30% of them wanting to vote but not being able due to access barriers. During an election year, it is especially important to take action and amplify the youth and disability votes.  

Young people are one of the most important voting demographics. Youth make up 20% of the population eligible to vote, which means the youth vote has a lot of influence. Young people are also the most diverse voting group and most often affected by modern issues, such as the economic recession and environmental depletion. With social media, blogs, and other easily accessible sources providing information about the candidates, making an informed decision has become much easier for young people. Young people have great power in elections and the decisions made by our society can have a long-lasting impact on their lives.

The disability vote is another potentially powerful voting group. Sadly, a lack of accessible voting has made getting the vote out very difficult. In the last election, 72% of polling places were not accessible. Difficulties faced can include not being able to maneuver a wheelchair in the voting space, disrespect from poll workers, accessible machines being not set up or broken, no clear instructions on how to use the accessible machines, and lack of privacy. In 2000, the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) was passed to address these issues. HAVA requires polling places be accessible, use encouraging ballots, and allow people with disabilities to cast their votes privately. However, since inaccessible voting is still an issue today, it is important for us to step up and take action.

Youth and people with disabilities can help by providing feedback to polling places, participating in voting focus groups, and promoting knowledge of accessible voting methods. For disability campaigns, use the hashtags #CripTheVote, #RevUP, #VoteDisability, #DisabilityVote, and  #GOTVDisability on social media to amplify your voice as a part of the disability movement. You can also use the youth vote hashtag #YouthVote and #RockTheVote. Perhaps the biggest way someone can challenge inaccessible voting is by volunteering as a poll worker.  Often times, polls are inaccessible because individuals do not know how to use or set up the accessible machines. If you want to ensure yourself and/or others are able to access the polls, volunteer! Not only is this a great professional experience, but you have the opportunity to amplify our voices. See http://www.elections.ny.gov/BecomePollworker.html for more details.

Voter Resources:

Registration and Deadlines: Visit  www.rockthevote.com or your local Department of Motor Vehicles or Independent Living Center.

Amplifying the Disability Vote: visit  http://www.aapd.com/our-focus/voting/ or http://www.sabeusa.org/govoter/ 

New York Disability Vote Network: visit www.nydvn.org

DRNY Protection and Advocacy for Voting Access:  http://www.drny.org/p-a-for-voting-access--pava-.html For more reasons why young people need to vote, please visit http://www.thebestcolleges.org/9-reasons-we-need-young-voters-more-than-ever/ References:

Self Advocates Becoming Empowered. "Voter Resources". Self Advocates Becoming Empowered. Web. 6.September 2016.

Texas Disability Project. Rev-Up Toolkit. N.p.: n.p., n.d. PrintThe Best Colleges. "9 Reasons We Need Young Voters More Than Ever." The BestColleges. N.p., n.d. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.

THE CENTER FOR INFORMATION & RESEARCH ON CIVIC LEARNING ANDENGAGEMENT. "Youth Voting." THE CENTER FOR INFORMATION & RESEARCH ON CIVIC LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT. N.p., n.d. Web. 6 Sept. 2016.

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You can’t compare them. A success can mean getting an A in your hardest class, or making tea, or having good friends in your life. It’s different for everyone at different points in their life.

[youthpowerny]

Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) Alumni Continue Growth - Elijah Fagan-Solis

I have found that nothing quite picks me up in the midst of a long day the way a milkshake from Stewart's Shops does. I was recently proven wrong when I went to get my pick me up and was pleasantly surprised to see a former RAMP youth joyfully working hard cashing out customers and then come over to mix my chocolate peanut butter cup milkshake. It was great to see him thriving in employment and even being offered extra hours in my presence.The milkshake was delicious, too, by the way.

RAMP uses group, peer, and individualized mentoring to teach youth about job options, to set and reach goals, as well as successfully transition them to employment, post-secondary education, and independent living. Often times, various seeds are planted in mentoring relationships and we don't always get to see them grow; oh but what a joy and sense of accomplishment it is to see the seeds bloom - even if it just one flower.

What is even better is when you get to see numerous seeds bloom and see even more parts of the plants budding. While attending my niece's graduation, I heard the name of a former RAMP youth who was also graduating with aspirations to join our nation's military. I also connected with two other alumni over the summer who had graduated from Albany High; one is currently working multiple jobs, and the other is attending a local community college for theater as acting and singing were always his goal.

My favorite flower, because of how much resiliency it has shown, bloomed this summer. This youth faced issues with bullying, getting into fights in and out of school, truancy, and numerous suspensions. He made the decision with the help of his mentor to attend night school so that he could focus on his goal of graduating all while working multiple jobs. He made up all the work needed and was passing the classes he was taking, yet he faced adversity once again in the form of a History Regents Exam that kept him from graduation in June. With the encouragement of his mentors, sharing of resources, and studying, this youth persevered and recently graduated last month! He continues to thrive in employment and hopes to attend college in the spring.

While only a few alumni were mentioned, many are doing great things and success isn't limited only to alumni either. Current RAMP youth have also been thriving in employment, volunteer opportunities, camps, sports, and more. Even greater things are expected with the start of the school year upon us. What a beautiful aroma it is when you stop and smell the roses.

To learn more about the Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program, visitwww.youthpowerny.org/ramp/

[youthpowerny]

A Capital Trip by MJ Smyth

Every year, the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL), which leads the Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP), holds an Annual Meeting in Washington D.C. for youth participants and coordinators.   This year, the meeting will took place from Wednesday, August 3 through Friday, August 5. This is a meeting in which youth from the 10 RAMP sites throughout the country come together and participate in activities, training, presentations of high tech projects, a tour of our Nation's Capital, a college tour, and career exploration.  The following is one Albany RAMP youth's Washington D.C. experience.

Have you ever had a chance to go on an adventure to somewhere... different than what you're used to? That's a great feeling, isn't it? It was for me, anyway. This is my story of an adventure that I very much enjoyed, a trip to Washington D.C.

   A little backstory before we begin, my name is MJ Smyth, and I was invited to the RAMP annual meeting in Washington D.C. I went with my site's coordinator, Elijah, and my good mate Anthony. The trip was three days, August 3rd, 4th and 5th. It was a splendid vacation and I got to relax, something I rarely get to do anymore. So, without further ado, let us begin, appropriately, at the beginning...

   It was about 6 AM, on Wednesday, August 3, when my mother woke me up to tell me to get ready for the trip. As I had already packed the night before, I was well aware where everything was. I took a shower, washed up, made my bed and got ready to leave. Less than an hour later, Elijah pulled up. He had just gotten back from his own vacation (ironically), so he was ready for the LONG drive to Washington. After saying goodbye to my mom, I got into the car. Now I won't bore you with the mundane details of the car ride, because I was listening to music like seventy-five percent of the way, so in all honesty, I have no clue what happened between Anthony and Elijah.

   We got to D.C. about 2:30 that afternoon. It was a good feeling to stand up. I hadn't done so since we stopped at a Dunkin' Donuts in Jersey almost four hours prior. We took our baggage and went to the lobby. Now, the first thing I wanted to do was get to the room that Anthony and I would share and change my clothes, but as we were already late, we'd have to postpone that idea. Instead, we had to head into the room where everyone was meeting. I was anxious but confident, Anthony and I had been working on a video game (I know, awesome right?), and we knew it would steal the show.

   Now, two things going forward; first, I am not going to be addressing any other youth by their names, as that could put them in an uncomfortable position, and no one likes that. Secondly, am only going to be pointing out the few that I remember, it was quite a bit ago as of my writing this and not everything is exactly perfect.

   Upon walking into the room, I noticed a sort-of cold impression, as if everybody already seemed to know each other, except for this one kid sitting at another table, but I'll get to him later. Now, Anthony is the type of kid who wants to make friends with everybody. He does exceptionally well in that aspect, he is likable and kind. Case-in-point, the first thing he did was make friends with a girl from California. We had been in there about ten minutes, literally! I, on the other hand, had quite the opposite effect on the youth. I was trying to come off as mature, and as Anthony had made a rather inappropriate comment I was looking more mature, if more distant one of us.

   After Anthony and I had joined the rest of the youth in a mentorship meeting, we were FINALLY able to get into our hotel room. While Anthony unpacked and got comfortable, I hopped onto my bed and plugged in my electronics. My tablet, which hadn't been charging properly in a long time, actually started charging correctly. I was overjoyed. Soon, I noticed that the television in our room was a Smart T.V. So, I connected my tablet to it and watched some YouTube videos on the big screen. Anthony came back as soon as I began watching some Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. We had a blast watching one of my favorite episodes "The Foot Soldiers Are Revolting!"

   Soon afterward, we went up to Union Station and had dinner at one of the restaurants there, Johnny Rockets'. I just had some french fries as I wasn't too hungry. After dinner, we went to F.Y.E. Anthony found a fake sword and wanted to buy it. Elijah was surprised, as was I, but it was something he wanted, so he got it. Upon returning to the hotel room, Anthony and I watched some more Turtles, and when I wanted to discuss the issue of our presentation with Anthony, but he passed out before we could continue our discussion. As I didn't want to disturb his sleep, I just took a shower, used the bathrobe, and watched "Friends" before passing out, at four in the morning, having to get up in less than two hours.

   The next morning I was exhausted, and Anthony could tell. I was still acting the same as I was before, but more genuinely tired and irritated. That didn't affect Anthony at all, seemingly. It was later when I could tell something was wrong, but I digress. Today was day two, and that meant it was college tour day. We would be touring George Washington College. Anthony and I were split apart for the college tour, and I met a young man from Texas. He and I discussed the college at length and decided it wasn't our speed. You see, my friend from Texas wants to be an airplane mechanic. I want to be a public transportation operator, so our jobs would be in a somewhat similar field. Of course, his job would be significantly more important than mine. In any case, the college tour was rather interesting, but the most enjoyable part would be after lunch, the pool party!

   After the college tour, Elijah, Anthony and I headed a block down to Walmart. As Anthony had a lot of snacks, and I had exhausted my resources on the drive to D.C. I wanted to get some munchies to last me the remainder of the trip. So, that was the point of that mission. I went to get some Pop-Tarts, Hawaiian Punch, and a Giant Hershey's Cookies and Cream bar. All the while, Anthony was looking rather glum and I wanted to know what was up.

   When we got back to the hotel, we had a bit of time before the pool party, so I asked Anthony what was wrong. He didn't get into too many details, but I could tell he was having a bit of trouble with his relationship. I told him some good advice, which anyone can take: "If this was meant to be, you'll patch things up, if it wasn't, she's not the one." Anthony gave me a hug, and we went up to the pool. This, however, would not be the last time today Anthony would be having these problems.

   When we got to the pool, everyone was already there playing pool volleyball. Anthony and I got on opposite teams, so it was myself, the young man from Texas and a young man from Michigan, against Anthony and the California kids. Now, I hadn't been in a pool for almost two years prior to this, so my team was at a disadvantage. However, we had great fun and ended up winning anyway. Soon afterward, everybody except for myself, Anthony and the kid from Texas remained. We had a lot of fun in the pool just hamming it up and throwing each other around. There was one more thing on the itinerary for that day, the D.C. Tour!

   About an hour or two later, Anthony and I were on a tour bus with everyone else. Elijah got on too, so it was going to be an enjoyable trip. The tour guide was very interesting, and showed us several sites, but as soon as we got to Capitol Hill, Anthony started walking away. Some of the adults started chasing him, but he wasn't talking. After a long period of sulking, I was finally able to get him to listen to me, he was overly upset about his girlfriend. By the end of the day, however, he was feeling better, just in time for our presentation. Back to the tour, however, something interesting that happened was that I cracked my limited edition Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles watch in front of the White House. I hadn't been that angry in a while. Toward the end of the day, we stopped at the Lincoln Memorial. Stopping at the steps, I looked out into the horizon. Something told me that my worst years were over. It was a positive feeling. After that little epiphany, we went back to the hotel to get ready for our presentation.

   Finally, the big day came. Anthony was ready, I was dressed up fairly professionally and we were ready to knock out this presentation. As the third and final day started coming to an elegant end. Finally, it came to our presentation. As everyone watched attentively, Anthony and I gave everyone a blow-by-blow of the game and what it was about. The result? Standing ovation! We were loved by everyone. Things went great. Anthony was overjoyed and I was happy myself. This was a crowning achievement in my heart, and his as well.

   So that was my trip to Washington D.C. I hope that you enjoyed reading, hearing or however you acquired the knowledge about it. I am certainly blessed to have a program like R.A.M.P in my life, and if you ever get the chance to join up. I implore you to do so. You have no idea what you're missing. I'd like to recite a line one of the youth said during this trip "Say no to drugs and say yes to jumping!" Farewell.

[youthpowerny]

National Mentoring Month 2016 - In Real Life

In celebration of National Mentoring Month 2016, YOUTH POWER’s Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program in Albany, NY wanted to share a personal, ‘in real life’ story that shows the power of mentoring in youth’s lives. The story highlights interview questions asked separately by Mentoring Coordinator Elijah Fagan Solis, with mentor Christina Narkon and mentee Alexander Hamm on their mentoring relationship.  Christina, who recently moved out of the area, is a young professional who formerly worked with the New York State Senate Republican Campaign Committee. Her mentee, Alexander, is now a senior attending night school within the Albany City School District. 

How did you both get involved in RAMP? 

AH - Daphnne (Brown, Families Together in New York State’s Director of Family Involvement and Outreach) introduced me to RAMP when I was 13 years old.  She gave me the opportunity to get extra work done for school. 

CN - I got involved in RAMP during my undergraduate career. I had been working in an elementary school and I was helping to run a youth ministry program, so a friend (who was a mentor at the time) suggested I look into RAMP!

Alexander, with RAMP being career focused, what career are you interested in?

AH - I’m interested in going to a law school and focus on criminal law.  I also have thought about being a veterinarian. 

Do you two remember the first time you met? 

AH - I remember when I first met Christina she was really big on teaching me manners.  

CN - I will never forget the first time I met Alexander! I was brand new to the program, and as soon as I walked in he briefly paused from chatting with everyone to point at me and declare that I would be his mentor.

How has your relationship changed since that first day?

AH - Since we first met, our relationship has grown to be stronger.  I feel as if I could ask Christina for advice if I need it.  

CN - My relationship with Alexander has surely grown over the past few years. We first bonded over his search for a job. We built his resume together and I went with him to apply at various establishments. Now, I visit him at his place (or places!) of work. We discuss more in-depth issues now, as well. Just last month, I showed Alexander how to register to vote and we discussed politics, our civic duties, and various things that showed up on the Albany City ballot this past November. It is so interesting watching Alex grow from a student at Albany High to an adult who has intelligent and informed opinions about his community and how it can be better run.

 What do you talk about or do when you are together? 

AH - When we are together we talk about how I can better myself and better ways for me to budget my money.  Last time we were together we talked about Republicans and Democrats and voting; I am now a registered voter. 

CN - We talk about tons of things! We discuss everything from current events, to social media etiquette, to Alexander’s short-term and long-term goals in regards to his education, career, finances, and more.

What goals have you been able to accomplish together as mentor and mentee?

AH - One goal me and her have worked on together would be treating people with respect and having manners.  She told me being rude wouldn’t get me far with job opportunities and other things in life.  With school, she told me I could argue with as many teachers as I want but it’s not going to change the fact that I have to graduate at the end of the year.  Christina also helped me with dressing for an interview, and even brought me to places so I could apply for jobs.   Her tips with interview clothing and manners helped me to get the job I have today. 

CN - The first thing Alexander told me (and he told me over and over) was that he wanted- no, NEEDED- a job. Within a few weeks of meeting, we built his resume and started searching for jobs for him. He has since held a variety of jobs including managerial positions! 

Do you approach life and school differently since Christina has been your mentor? 

AH - Yes! It all falls back on the arguing with people, like a boss  at work or teacher at school...No matter how I feel about them, I still need to do what I need to do and I can’t let anyone bring me down.  Also, because of Christina, I now take notes at school and go home and study them which I never did before. 

Christina, how has mentoring Alexander changed your life?  Has he taught you anything?

CN - Had I never been Alexander’s mentor, I would surely be a different person. He has taught me so much about how I approach life.  I have never known Alexander to be pessimistic; he is a go-getter, and brings humor and an energetic dynamic to every situation. I try to hold this same approach now. 

Tell us about one of your favorite memories together. 

AH - One of my favorite memories is doing the coca cola and Mentos experiment with her.  I thought it was funny trying to get the Mentos into the bottle and the different solutions that we tried but didn’t work - it just brought our bond closer.  Also, when we went to go pick up the application for Wendy’s, she helped me answer questions I wouldn’t have known and let me put her down as a reference.  It meant a lot to me. 

CN - I can’t pick just one favorite memory! I think my favorite memory has been getting coffee with Alexander and showing him how to register to vote. So many young people don’t even care about this important civic duty. It was amazing discussing this process with him! I think he might be more “into” politics than I am! 

What has been most beneficial to you by having Christina as a mentor? 

AH - Most beneficial?  Woo! Oh man... Being able to put her down as a reference for a job; being able to say I’ve known her for about 3 years and have someone who could say I was a hard worker helps.  Also, she helped me get to RAMP when I needed.  Helping me get through school, my homework, talking me out of and diffusing situations that were hard like getting suspended and helping me find alternates to stay out of trouble. Christina, what do you like about being a mentor?

CN - Being a mentor has given me an opportunity to guide someone not much younger than me on the very tumultuous journey called Life. I am so grateful that I get to be someone in Alexander’s corner. Every time he has told me that I taught him something, or I helped him achieve something, I get a sense of happiness that cannot be obtained elsewhere! 

Do you plan to continue your relationship even though you both are now states away?

AH - I hate the fact that she is states away!  Nothing will change our relationship though.   I plan to stay in contact with her and I know I can contact her whenever I need her.  When I graduate, I hope to invite her to my graduation. 

CN - Since I just relocated quite a few states away, my main goal is to keep in touch with Alex. Most importantly, I want him to continue to know that I will always have his back and that I will always be available to give him guidance. In my opinion, distance shouldn’t and will not affect mentorship! 

Do you have any big plans for the future?

AH - I look forward to graduating high school, going to college and law school and pursing my law dreams.  

CN - My plan here in Georgia is to actually make working with youths like Alex a full time career! Until then, I have recently taken a position as a Lead Teacher, allowing me to educate while mentoring less experienced teachers.  My experience as a mentor is something I tap into daily if not hourly as I train and guide other teachers.

There is a powerful mentoring effect demonstrated by research and the experiences of young people, just like Alexander, who are connected to a mentor.  Mentoring is linked to improved academic, social and economic prospects for people, and ultimately strengthens our community.   Personally, it has been a joy to watch Alexander grow up physically, socially, emotionally, and mentally before my very eyes as he continues to strive towards his career aspirations and reach goal after goal after goal.  He has been steadily employed for over a year, most times at two locations, has made thoughtful decisions when it comes to his friends and social life, all while completing his high school education by attending night school, a decision he made to stay out of trouble and focus on his course work.  His story is why I do what I do as a Mentoring Coordinator.  I couldn’t be more proud and plan to be cheering him on at his graduation.

[youthpowerny]

Is the Term Recovery Offensive?

The other day, someone asked me if I was offended by the term Recovery. That the term itself implied that there was something inherently wrong with me that I needed recover from, rather than promoting the acceptance that everyone is different. This question caught me off guard. Before this, I never truly considered whether or not I should be offended by the term recovery. Through being a part of YOUTH POWER!, I have come to an understanding that not everyone views recovery the same way. However, when talking about behavioral health, recovery is a very important concept.

If you look up recovery, you will find countless definitions which make it all the more difficult to have an understanding of what recovery is. Up until 2010, even the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) had separate definitions for recovery from mental disorders and substance use disorders. Since then, they have created a working definition of recovery;

Recovery is "a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential."

While this definition helps us to understand the concept of recovery, it is important to note that when you step outside the world of behavioral health, the answer to "are you offended by the term recovery" is going to change. In my personal experience, most of my life I have spent closed off and hiding in the darkness. Pushing my demons deep inside me where I thought nobody could see them, and putting on a mask that said, "Everything is okay, I am fine." My past is riddled with experiences that I am slowly coming to terms with as the traumatic experiences that triggered my mental health disorders, along with the coping strategies  I used that were in no way a healthy choice, but the only way I felt I could manage what was going on deep beneath the surface.

By making a conscious choice to address how I was coping  and finding the supports I needed - a combination of hope, turning to my peers, educating myself, and finding healthier ways to cope - I have found my recovery. There will be days that are harder than others, and days where I feel as though I am on top of the world. With every moment I must acknowledge that it is okay to not be okay, and on the other side, that I am allowed to feel okay without it disregarding my experiences. Recovery is real and it is a process that takes time.

But that opinion is specific to my experiences and primary involvement in behavioral health. In YP! there are people that don't identify with the word recovery because they feel it means they are broken and need to be fixed or cured. This is especially true for people with autism and other disabilities. Everyone is different and it is important to embrace diversity and let people use language they identify with. So to answer that question, no, I personally am not offended by the term recovery. I am my recovery and it is through my recovery that I have been given ownership of my life again. 

What do you think? Is the term recovery offensive? When and how do you think the term should be used?

[youthpowerny]

Companions and Confidence: The Journey to Getting a Guide Dog

September is Guide Dog Month! Read Below for the Stories of Blaise, Aaron, and their four-legged companions!

Blaise and Flash’s Story:

One of the first things I figured out when considering getting a guide dog is it’s not in any way an impulse decision; it’s one that you know it’s time. That time can be a scary event, leading to a heightened sense of insecurity and lower confidence when walking with a cane. I know this because that’s what I experienced.

It was roughly two years ago, I was a senior at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY; walking to my internship at WAMC/Northeast Public Radio which is the local National Public Radio station. While walking along Quail Street, crossing Washington Avenue, one of the busiest streets in Albany, the harsh reality of a car making a left turn in front of me, nearly hitting me, was the single-most scariest moment of my life. When my then Orientation and Mobility Instructor, and now good friend Samantha grabbed my shoulders pulling me back, I knew right then and there I needed to make a change. At the time, I was still dealing with my fear of large dogs, which plagued me from when I was a kid, because the barking and jumping on me was frightening.

During that day of near-disaster, I was a mess beyond words. I clearly remember sitting in the WAMC newsroom, sometimes shaking because the fear of the unknown…what did I need to do to move on from this being the million-dollar question. When talking with my dad that evening, he mentioned a guide dog. I let it sink in for a few seconds…saying to him: “You know Dad…you’re right!”

 I’ll fast-forward to December 2013 when I was on winter break. I spent the first half of break researching guide dog schools to apply to. After several conversations, the list was narrowed down to two: Guiding Eyes for the Blind, and The Seeing Eye, which is where I ended up going to in August 2014. I chose The Seeing Eye because they were able to get me into a class much sooner.

 August 20, 2014, was and will always be the greatest day of my life. Knock knock on my door…my fantastic instructor Brian ONeil. “Blaise…take my arm and come with me to the lounge.” The next thing I knew, I was sitting in a chair, looking at the four-legged bundle of joy that always amazes me every single day. Brian said: “Blaise…this is Flash. He’s a black lab. Call him over to you.” Me in a quiet and nerve-filled voice: “Flash!” I couldn’t blame him for not moving, because he could sense my uncertainty. Brian: “Call him again…it’s okay!” Me: “Flash!!!!!!!!”

 Running…jumping…and licking my face was my Flash. He has navigated me through and around many things, always making sure I’m feeling safe, making travel easier than I could ever imagine, and wagging his tail while giving me kisses as I’m putting him in his work outfit…the harness. When he’s not working, Flash is a playful mush. He loves playing fetch and tug-of-war, which are also two of my favorite things. There’s nothing like waking up in the morning, unzipping Flash’s soft crate, and getting good morning hugs and kisses. He’s such a good boy!

Aaron and Maxie’s Story:

I decided to get myself a guide dog about a year before it actually happened.  The idea that I would be able to navigate and be better oriented to my surroundings was perhaps the biggest draw for me.  At the time, I was attending SUNY Cortland to get my Bachelor degree in psychology.  I wanted to travel as well as become better acquainted with my community – I trusted that a guide dog would help me do just that.

I applied for The Guide Dog Foundation, in October of 2004 and by March 2005 I received word that I was accepted as a student and the rest was a literal whirlwind.  I received a pre-training with one of the instructors who asked questions about my traveling habits and locations, determined my preferred stride and speed, and asked about my dog preferences.  Then, I was scheduled to join the June 2005 class at the school for a four week training.  This is where some schools differ – some schools have on-site training for guide dog handlers and some bring the dog to your home for training.

At the GDF, I settled into my “dorm room”, met some of my classmates and got familiar with the small campus and kennel.  We toured the dining room, onsite gym, lounge room, outdoor park, and met some of the guide dogs in training.  I actually remember seeing my soon-to-be guide during that tour.  The second day, they brought a couple of guides in to meet-and-greet with all the students.  The two dogs roamed and sniffed each of us… but one of them, a yellow lab-poodle cross, stopped and sat by my side.  I smiled.  After they two dogs left, we had some “technical training,” how-tos, do-nots, and what-to-expects.  

On the second full-day of training, right after breakfast, we went to our rooms and awaited a meet-and-greet with the dog that had been matched for us.  I was surprised to see the yellow lab-poodle cross, that I’d met the day before, come strutting in the room.  My trainer, Donnie, introduced her to me as Maxie.  The bond was not immediate!  She was friendly toward me, and listened fairly well, but she was always looking for Donnie, who had been training her for the last several months.  A guide dogs early years are quite hectic, they begin, after leaving their mother, with a Puppy-Raiser.

The puppy-raiser brings the guide-to-be home, helps them adjust to a positive home-life and provides basic obedience training – sit, stay, heel, etc.  Maxie was raised in Florida with a nurse who took her to the hospital where Maxie got to hang out with patients and ironically learned patience.  After the first year, the dog leaves their home and moves in at the GDF Kennel where they begin what we all called “Guide Dog Boot Camp”.  This is where they learn the more advanced commands – Forward, Straight, Turn Left, Find the Mailbox, and the list goes on.  Guides are incredibly smart and can understand multiple word commands.

There is so much more to the training process and the time spent building a good working relationship with Maxie, that it is hard to fully encompass everything.  I will say, however, that she gave me exactly what I was looking for – freedom and independence.  Maxie traveled across the United States with me, to conferences and vacations, to work and to dinner. From June 2005 until September 2013, Maxie worked her tail off and even made some of her own friends, including the crew at YOUTH POWER!  Maxie, over her normal 8 year working career, earned a happy retirement.  Guide Dog handlers, like myself, often get to choose – do they want to keep the dog after retirement or give it up for adoption?  I chose to keep Maxie, and she lives with me, my wife, Maria, and her retired guide dog, Dakota, at our home.  The two dogs are now approaching 12 years old.  We know that the next phase will be hard to deal with, but personally, I’m happier going through that process with Maxie, who spent her life giving me a life.

The big question I have now is, will I get another dog?  Truly, I have not decided.  Perhaps the biggest piece of what Maxie gave me was confidence.  That alone can take you a long way.  My confidence in myself has led me back to using a white cane and I navigate and orient myself pretty well.  There are advantages to both canes and guide dogs.  It is personal preference and what you are comfortable with and what does the most for you.  Me, I’m just going to stick with a cane for now, but I will wait to see what curve in life I face next, perhaps I will get a new companion to help guide me through it.

[aintnomewithoutnoyou-deactivate]

a masterpost for all of you who are feeling down, need some cheering up, or just beacause :)

Sad?

movies + websites!

free compliments!

whos the cutest?

the nicest place on the internet!

read any book!

the dawn room

the thoughts room

make everything okay

cheer me up

Anxiety/stressed?

rain sounds

do nothing for 2 minutes

silky thingy

plant flowers!!

distracting line thing

explore the world

color game!

paint like jackson pollock

explore the universe

guess where you are

Mad?

ungruntle me

eel slap!

confront yourself and your feelings

thinking of self harming? suicidal?

reasons to live

alternatives to self harm

coping with panic attacks

cut something that isnt skin

suicide hotlines

reminder

and lastly, know that i am here for you and i love you all so much. You’re all so important to me and I would hate to see any of you go. Take care, loves.

[body-peace]

[nekobakaz]

Person-First Language Doesn't Always Put the Person First

Emily Ladau explains why person-first language is not always preferred by disabled people.

[letterstothrive]

[image: aerial close-up of a brown shoe with white laces, on cement flooring, the base of a mobility cane beside the foot]

[funifi-blog]

[autisticadvocacy]

Memories from the 10th Anniversary In 1990 the University of San Francisco and the video production company, Access Video, collaborated with DREDF during 1999 and 2000 to interview some of the peo...