May 3, 2023
At the Eastern Area Conference on April 27th, 2023, the Farmington Valley (CT) Chapter achieved a well-deserved 3rd Place for Excellence in The Arts, specifically for their exceptional Youth Poetic Voices program.
The chapter's annual program report submission was centered on 'The ARTS' facet, focusing on the "Youth Poetic Voices" program. This unique initiative serves as a platform for young voices to express their hopes, feelings, and fears, nurturing the development of the youth voice.
Since its inception in 2018, the "Youth Poetic Voices" program has been a collaborative effort with Grace Academy, providing a vital outlet for the youth to communicate their experiences, especially during the challenging years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kimberly Staley, the Program Coordinator, highlighted the incredible impact of the program in the chapter's report. Over the last two years, it has become a sanctuary for the youth, offering a safe and mindful 8-week program that seamlessly transitioned between virtual and in-person sessions. This not only allowed participants to express themselves through poetry but also to connect with their peers and find their voices in addressing the issues that impacted their lives.
The 3rd Place recognition at the Eastern Area Conference is a testament to the chapter's dedication to youth empowerment and artistic expression. While the chapter received Best Practice awards in 2021 and 2022 for other programs, this achievement in the Youth Poetic Voices program marks a significant milestone, representing Farmington Valley (CT) Chapter’s commitment to nurturing and uplifting young voices in the community.
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