PBC Youth Affairs to Hold 10th Annual Resource Fair August 6

Solving Community Violence
The public is invited to attend the 10th Annual Resource Fair hosted by the Palm Beach County Division of Youth Affairs. This free event will be held Monday, Aug. 6, 2007, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Highridge Family Center, 4200 North Australian Ave., West Palm Beach.

This year’s theme is “Stop Violence Before It Stops You:  Connect Our Youth to Community Resources.”  Participants’ opportunities include engaging in on-site family activities and working with others as “Action Plan Designers” to find solutions to youth violence (such as sharing information on existing community resources, visions of needed services, how to enhance the utilization of existing services and removing obstacles to reach those who need the service).  

Keynote Speakers - 9:05 to 9:55 a.m.
State Rep. Priscilla Taylor, District 84, will speak at 9:05 a.m., and
State Rep. Maria Sachs, District 86, will speak 9:35 a.m.

Action Plan Designers Groups
Groups will have participants from the community (organizations, leaders, citizens, families, etc.) meet to design Action Plans related to connecting Palm Beach County youth to existing resources in an effort to reduce gang membership, school drop-out, violence, etc.

Morning Action Plan Designers - 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Topics include:  bullying, racism and discrimination, developing social skills and addressing emotional problems, addressing behavioral problems, female violence and drug/ETOH/prevention and intervention programs.

Evening Action Plan Designers - 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Topics include:  faith-based programs, academic enrichment programs, development of self and respect (authority/discipline), out-of-school activities (work, sports, etc), basic needs organizations and mentoring and coaching programs.

Reports/Implementation - 2:45 to 4 p.m.
Participants will receive Action Plan reports from each group.

There will also be many exhibits and displays presented by community organizations and family activities such as face painting, fingerprinting for children and visits by McGruff the Crime Dog and Sparky the Fire Dog. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. The Palm Beach County Health Department will provide free immunizations for children ages 18 and under from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.