22nd Annual Putnam County Youth Forum on April 4

22nd Annual Putnam County Youth Forum

On Monday April 4^th, Cornell University’s Cooperative Extension will host approximately 150 youth collectively representing Brewster, Carmel, Haldane, Mahopac, and Putnam Valley High Schools at Clearpool Education Center in Carmel.  This is an unmatched opportunity for High School students to participate in open discussions on many of the issues that often concern youth.  Some of the topics offered this year include: ‘A Story of Addiction’, ‘Let’s talk about Sex’, ‘Don’t Stress it’s Just College’, ‘Racial Issues’, If You Really Knew Me’, It’s all about the Money’, ‘Race for the White House’, Yoga & Workouts, and other choices. 

All of the topics offered at the Youth Forum were previously selected by the ‘Youth Forum Planning Committee’.  This group of High School students, representing the 5 county-wide school districts, have been meeting since January.  To ensure that this is a youth-driven event, they have been actively involved in all aspects of the Forum.

Facilitators, who bring an array of experience, knowledge and an ability to engage youth, will lead the discussions.  For instance the program – ‘A Story of Addiction” will be facilitated by ‘Drug Crisis in Our Backyard’ with real-life stories of the impact on families.  Matthew Lattimer from the NYS Department of Justice will speak on ‘Racial Issues’ and Bruce Walker, Deputy County Executive will address ‘Race for the White House’. 

Confidentiality and respect for the opinion of others is expected during each 50 minute program.  To ensure a free exchange of dialogue the workshops are open to only the facilitator and students. 

Interested high school students should contact their school administrator to apply for permission to attend the Forum.  Transportation is provided by the individual school district.  For additional information please contact Cornell Cooperative Extension: 845-278-6738 or e.putnam@cornell.edu