It is a tough time for people around the world and especially here in Minneapolis when it comes to discussions about race. As the Derek Chauvin trial begins, educators might need extra support and ways to process emotions with the people around them. We were given 2 resources that you might find helpful. Please check them out and share with your network. 

Our Director of Youth Operations, LaToya Balogun, was included in Hennepin County Library's "Black History Makers." During the month of February, HC-Library highlighted a different inspiring black individual every day. Our friend & colleague LaToya was their February 28th feature. Please join us in congratulating LaToya and all the others honored in this wonderful work by HC-Library. See all the Black History Makers HERE. 

We're always thrilled when youth work and youth workers get acknowledged. We get extra excited when the person being acknowledged is a part of the YCB family. Our very own Ramiro Vazquez Jr. was recently highlighted in a LatinoLEAD piece. A big thanks to LatinoLEAD for sharing this story and thanks to Ramiro for all the great work he does! 

Find full article HERE. 

Hello Afterschool + Summer Providers! We are piloting a new version of What’s Up 612! this summer! What’s Up 612! is a FREE citywide online resource where youth, parents, educators, youth workers and everyone who knows a young person can find afterschool and summer activities and programs in Minneapolis for ages 5-24.

We are currently getting program providing organizations registered via our ORGANIZATION REGISTRATION FORM. Once you submit your application and your organization is approved, we'll have you submit information about your program(s). 

Due to COVID-19, program and activities for youth look will look very different this summer, but we're hoping What's Up 612! will give clarity to policy makers, partner organizations and families in Minneapolis.

There is a lot going on in the world and especially here in Minneapolis. With so much going on, how do we properly identify these feelings and know if what we are feeling inside is healthy? The Minneapolis Youth Congress decided to track down some answers so they reached out to mental health experts at school-based clinics in Minneapolis. They asked questions like — Are these feelings good or bad? What is the normal amount of anxiety? What are some tips to prevent anxiety?

You can find our first 2 videos on the side or you can visit our YouTube page to watch our new mental health videos and many other videos. CLICK HERE for our YouTube page. 

Graduation this year looks very different for seniors, but that shouldn't stop us from celebrating their accomplishments. In fact, we should be lifting up this year's graduating class even more because of the challenges they face as they transition to the next phase of their lives. We have an amazing class of Minneapolis Youth Congress members graduating this year and moving on to new endeavors. Thank you for all that you do and congrats!