On Wednesday, October 23rd, the West Cook County Youth Club hosted its 2nd annual Anti-Bullying Day as part of our celebration of Unity Month. This year, we were thrilled to see 56 Club members come together to participate in this important event, aimed at fostering awareness, empathy, and strategies for resisting bullying and negativity.
Empowering Elementary Members with Shawnda Steer
We were honored to welcome our good friend, Shawnda Steer, who led an engaging session with our elementary-aged members. The discussion revolved around the importance of unity and kindness, culminating in the creation of a Unity Chain—a powerful visual reminder of the strength we have when we stand together.
Middle School Insights with Ed Sheehan
For our middle school members, Ed Sheehan facilitated a meaningful group discussion on the challenges they face, including bullying and peer pressure. The session also tackled the critical issue of cyberbullying, helping members recognize the dangers of negative online behaviors and the importance of making smart choices in the digital world.
A Shared Commitment to Learning and Growth
Both groups demonstrated great enthusiasm and participated actively in discussions, reflecting the importance of this topic in their daily lives. Through these interactions, our members gained valuable tools and resources to navigate challenging situations, both in person and online.
Looking Ahead
The impact of Anti-Bullying Day doesn’t end here. We’re excited to announce a second part of this program, planned for January to coincide with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. Our goal is to continue these conversations and expand them into quarterly events. By doing so, we aim to provide ongoing education about avoiding negative influences and connecting with community resources that empower our young people to make safe, informed decisions.
Get Involved!
Would you like to contribute to this vital initiative? We’re always looking for speakers and volunteers to inspire and guide our members during these events. If you’re interested, please reach out to us at contact@wccyc.org.
Together, we can create a stronger, kinder, and more supportive community for our youth. Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Anti-Bullying Day a success! Stay tuned for updates on our January program and future events.