Dear Parent(s) &/or Guardian(s),

Hello! School is back in session! Please let us know how we can best support your youth this year.

On a personal note, I attended a  leadership conference in Sacramento over the summer. It was a time of learning, sharing, listening, connection, inspiration and motivation. I look forward to reading through my notes and reading all the informational slides that were shared in each workshop presentation that I attended. One of the Keynote speakers, Patricia Barahana from Youth Leadership Institute said this: “We’ve been moving at the speed of trust, the trust of young people.” This statement resonated with me so much. It speaks volumes about the work we do everyday. From the day we opened back up from Covid, we have been gaining the trust of young  people each and every day. We value each and every young person that walks through our doors and finds a safe place to be their authentic selves while
learning, growing and connecting with safe people. Thank you so much for entrusting us with your youth.

Upcoming Events:

      October 5th, ‘Let’s Talk About Cannabis’ community workshop at MTC. 
      *This is a substance use prevention workshop and is open to 6th-12th graders.

Sincerely,

Marie Ream, Unit Director

(707) 840-0304

mream@bgcredwoods.org

Sincerely,
Marie Ream
Unit Director

McKinleyville Teen Center Staff, Left to Right: Francesca, Jake, Dallas & Marie

January

Jacob became a member in December and has already earned member of the month. He is always wearing a huge smile and laughs frequently. He always has a great attitude and is a joy to be around. He is respectful, kind, thoughtful, and a good friend. Jacob participates in programs such as Passport to Manhood, SMART Moves and Cooking Club. Jacob can often be found playing DND and loves his family. 

February

Terra is a phenomenal person. She is kind hearted, generous with her talents and time, thoughtful, a good friend, intelligent and talented. Terra participates in SMART Moves, Cooking Club, Art’s Unlimited, Pride Group, Trivia and often helps staff with cleaning. Terra is a positive light for everyone around her.

April

Zoe has so much personality and is straight out of the ’80s goth scene! She loves Nine Inch Nails, Tool and is always listening to music. Zoe is a resilient, growing leader and has had a huge influence on the direction of our Friday Night Live meetings.  She has led many baking and sharing circle activities here at the Club. Members look up to her. Zoe is always involved in our fundraising events as well as different community service opportunities. She is a wonderful role model for her peers. 

May

Roland is bright, fun, funny, kind, helpful and an amazing leader. He has taken the lead in several areas around the Club. Members look up to him and respect him. Roland gives good encouragement and is a wonderful friend to many. He can often be found playing DND, cooking in the kitchen, hanging out with friends/staff, taking out the trash, attending Guys group or Friday Night Live (FNL). Roland comes to the Club almost every day most months and had perfect attendance for the month of April. 

July

Nate has been serving on our Friday Night Live (FNL) Leadership team for 10 months now. He is growing as a person and showing both maturity and vulnerability. Nate has been volunteering with Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna and the Betty Kwan Day Center in Eureka with our leadership team. He is enthusiastic, a supportive friend and has many passions. Nate will be entering high school next year and will be attending the Academy of the Redwoods.

August

Karissa has come to the teen center almost everyday this summer. She is hilarious, caring, loves to share, is open and honest, super helpful, and holds herself accountable. Karissa participates in Girls Group, SMART Moves, Cooking Club and Art Unlimited. She seeks out the support and guidance of staff on a regular basis. She is always kind and engaging.