This session centers on the strengths of Alaska Native communities, so that we can build on them to better support youth growing up today. Participants talk about suicide in Alaska over time, showing that it has increased since the 1960s. This learning circle features a video with people discussing what they think contributes to the problem.
After the video, participants discuss how this information relates to their experiences and communities. The “River of Development” is an opportunity to look at what research supports youth development and ability to get through hard times. Community members discuss the ways that ways that families and communities can support youth to develop in the areas: Learning, Relationships, Self-Awareness, Awareness of Others, and Hope. The learning circle will end with everyone sharing ideas for what they want to do to promote youth wellness.
Download a printable PDF of the handout below here.
References:
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