Supporting young people?

Question

i have a job interview with a charity thats helps young people - teen mums, young carers, vulnerable etc. they have asked me to bring an object that allows me to talk creatively for 5 minutes about supporting young people. I've got no idea. have u got any ideas?

Answer 1

I don't know, maybe a rock?  Use it to symbolize your dedication to support and the importance of young people having a mentor they can turn to?  Kind of cliche I guess, but it's all I could think of.  Good luck!

Answer 2

I would bring in a small container with a lid. Tupperware. A large bottle. An empty box will do, but make sure you don't use the tired old phrase of "think outside the box!" Ha!

Container in hand, lid open, I'd talk about how young people today face many challenges. They often feel like they are hemmed in by circumstances, education, family, etc. They feel forced down inside the container with the lid closed. (Close the lid at this point). The walls of the container obscure their view. They focus on the walls and the limited options they have within those walls. They can't see their future, they can't see the spectrum of opportunities that lie before them.

A youth outreach program should open the lid of the container. It should help them to see their future, their possibilities. It should work to given them the help and encouragement they need to get up out of the container where they can see all their options and realize their dreams.

If you take this suggestion and "make it your own" by adding in what you're passionate about, you can easily last 5 minutes.

Answer 3

A magazine that young people might read.  It represents being in touch with where they are, highlighting the issues that concern and affect them.  Something like a magazine is also a good tool for engaging with young people, it's a place to start a discussion about what they are into, what their issues are and what support your service can provide.

Good challenge though.  Good luck!

Answer 4

I am the CFO of Blessings In The Mire, Inc. We are a non-profit for the prevention & awareness of suicide.  Unfortunately, the rate of suicide is very high in adolescents; whichmeans we work very closely with this age group.  This summer, we are hosting an Art Contest for At-Risk Youth. We strongly believe that kids need to be occupied. Boredom leads to depression. Additionally, art is a good way for kids to express their deepest emotions.

I might recommend bringing something artistic, drawing pads, colored pencils, paints, or a book that would be helpful for these kids (of course, I suggest the book, "Blessings In The Mire" as it inspired our corporation). Adolescents also need to feel connected, a part of the whole. Consider something about forming a committee with the kids, for park clean-up or volunteer services in the community. Think of things you enjoy and expand on them. Do you enjoy dancing? Or running? Or writing? What ideas would you be interested in, if you were in their shoes, that would bring about positive change in their lives?

I hope these ideas help. Let me know how it goes.

~Mel

http://www.BlessingsInTheMire.com