The Coalition for Bedford Youth will host a members’ meeting for all members (old and new) on Wednesday, Oct. 26, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Ross A. Lurgio School Media Center. All Bedford youth in grades 8-12 are invited (regardless of which school they attend) to find out more about CBY.

Come learn how CBY youth have fun volunteering within the community and developing leadership skills in the process!

CBY youth usually meet once every two weeks on Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Ross Lurgio Media Center. The mission of CBY is to provide a safe and fun environment, encourage mutual respect between self and others, and provide a strong voice for the youth of Bedford through activities, community service and outreach.

CBY has its roots in the "Developmental Assets" by the Search Institute. These assets, proven through research, are positive qualities that influence young people’s development, helping them become caring and responsible adults. They are protective characteristics that have been linked by extensive research to enhancing resistance to at-risk behaviors. The positive power of assets is evident as teens who have experienced higher levels of assets tend to do well in school, be civically engaged, are more persistent in the face of adversity, and value diversity among their peers. CBY incorporates these assets (e.g. family and school support, communication, positive peer influence, self esteem, integrity, personal power, service to others) in the meetings, and works on building these assets within youth through different types of leadership activities and community service.

There are many exciting opportunities for Bedford teens to participate in activities such as student-led workshops at Stand By Me, collaborations with the Bedford Parks & Recreation Department including Halloween and Easter events, Annual Rotary Club Races, and working with the Salvation Army Kids’ Cafe Program. CBY has also planned and hosted events such as talent shows for seventh and eighth grade students, and a youth booth with dodge ball at Olde Towne Day.

CBY has a rolling membership, so you can join at any time!

To learn more about CBY visit our website, www.cbynh.org

– Submitted by Coalition for Bedford Youth