Local Seventh Grade Students to
Attend G.R.I.T. Workshop
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[September 09, 2019]
As the ALMH Community Health Collaborative and their partners
reviewed the results of Logan County’s Illinois Youth Survey, middle
school was identified as a critical time for Logan County youth.
The most recent Logan County Youth Survey found that by eighth grade
35% of Logan County students had already used a substance (alcohol,
cigarettes, inhalants or marijuana) in the past year. By 10th grade
that increased to 59% and by 12th grade that increased to 65%.
In addition, the recent Logan County Community Health Needs
Assessment identified substance abuse, mental health and obesity as
priority health needs in Logan County. To provide resources and
support to Logan County youth in these areas, a Gaining Resilience
In Teens (G.R.I.T.) workshop will be held on Friday, September 13.
Planning partners include the Logan County Department of Public
Health, First Presbyterian Church of Lincoln, Chestnut Health
Systems, Lincoln College, Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago,
Logan County Education Coalition and area schools.
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Over 300 seventh graders are expected to attend the event held during the school
day featuring 10 workshops. Participants will obtain lifelong tools to
encouraged informed decision around physical health, nutrition, future goals,
emotional health and coping. Resources and speakers are lined up to meet the
needs of Logan County 7th graders. Over 50 community volunteers are offering
their time and expertise to ensure a successful event.
Jennifer Keith, creator of G.R.I.T., will be featured as the keynote speaker.
“The focus of G.R.I.T. is to provide and enhance self-care skills for the
students. We hope that after they participate they will have more tools in their
toolbox to deal with life’s challenges. Ultimately, we want to prepare them to
make healthy choices starting now and into the future,” said Keith.
[Angela Stoltzenburg] |