Teens and Leadership

By Ashley Mitchell

    In today’s fast-paced, always distracted, and incredibly complex world, teens face a variety of challenges that can influence their decisions and shape their futures. Among these challenges is the temptation of substance abuse, which remains a concern for many families and communities. However, research and real-world experiences show that engaging teens in leadership roles not only helps them develop essential life skills but can also serve as a protective factor against risky behaviors. Leadership roles provide teens with opportunities to develop a sense of responsibility, build confidence, and learn valuable skills such as communication, decision-making, marketing, and teamwork. Leadership roles foster a sense of purpose, control, aspiration, and belonging.  This is why Save A Life has taken a step to engage our youth in the community and start a Teen Advisory Council. 

     Leadership roles often place teens in environments where they are surrounded by positive influences and are expected to set an example for their peers. This sense of accountability can show them how important their actions are and motivate them to think about their long term future instead of just short term. Studies have shown that teens who participate in structured activities, such as leadership programs, sports, clubs, etc, are less likely to engage in substance abuse. Being in a position of influence encourages them to adopt healthier habits and it shows them better pathways and that can create a better future for themselves. We are trying to give them the tools to be empowered and be heard.

      The benefits of teen leadership and teen focus programs extend beyond the individual. When teens are engaged in positive activities, they influence their friends, creating a ripple effect. These teens invite their friends, and their friends see that they are actually enjoying themselves and creating something that is their own. Leadership emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and growth. We have done our best to, and will continue to let the teens lead the way with our Teen Advisory Council. They see the issues in the community and they see the major issues in their schools and they are ready to do something about it. We are happy to provide them a safe space to accomplish their goals and to listen.  As teens step into leadership roles, they not only gain skills that will serve them for a lifetime but also learn the value of making positive choices. In doing so, they set a strong foundation for their own success. This gives them the power to break the cycles they may live with or see, including but not limited to substance abuse, mental health issues, or other abuses. 

      We hope to see more teens at our Save A Life Teen Advisory Council. The teens that are currently participating have advised us that we need to continue to meet every Friday after school until their first event. They want to give more teens an opportunity to come to Save A Life and be heard and participate in projects they want to start. The first project our Teen Advisory Council will be putting together is a Craft Fair. This craft fair will have later hours to accommodate those who play sports or work. The Craft Fair here at Save A Life will be December 13th and 14th 3:00-530pm. Tables are $15 (tables are provided) and are still available to reserve.

Our Teen Recovery Coach at the Center!