I've had such a wonderful experience working for YCB. I learned how to truly connect with young people so they feel heard when they voice what makes them feel safe in their communities. I’m proud of the positive impact my placement has made on young people’s lives, and the outreach I have accomplished in this role has been extremely fulfilling.
My experience
I have been helping Leopoldino as a research assistant with our safety project. While leading interviews about what would make youth feel safe in Minneapolis, I heard recurring concerns about gun violence and access to mental health support. High school students said they felt uneasy going outside, including in crowded places, parks, schools, and various neighborhoods, because of the fear of shootings and the presence of federal enforcement from Operation Metro Surge.
Students also said that limited access to mental health resources made it difficult to focus during a crisis. They believe proper mental health support could help prevent young people who grow up in dangerous environments from entering unsafe situations where they may become involved in violence.
Youth opportunities
I’m looking forward to a future where our community and elected officials help create a city where youth feel as secure and content as possible. At YCB, we have been developing a Program Finder app that gives young people the opportunity to find activities in their city during their free time outside of school. They will be able to find a new hobby, club, job, free event, or social service near them.
Through this work, I have learned that after-school activities give youth safe spaces and opportunities to connect with others. We are also discussing a program with the Mayor of Brooklyn Center in which high school students who want to work in the mental health field can receive training to become counselors for their peers. We would like to develop this into a paid career opportunity where students support their classmates while receiving training that helps them care for their own mental health.
Policy priorities
Our local government can also help through gun-safety policies. We have been discussing bills that would add restrictions on guns at school, including Bill HF 3401. These policies could help youth feel safer in Minneapolis.
I’m very glad I have been able to work with individuals who truly care about the safety and development of our future generation in Minneapolis. The methods YCB is working to implement in the city can help youth cope with adversity in healthy ways, which young people need in these times. During my internship this summer, I strengthened my research, interviewing, and writing skills in ways I never imagined. I’m eternally grateful for what this opportunity has taught me.