Empowering Youth And Building A Brighter Future
Sonora, CA – It is FNL Day in Tuolumne County, recognizing the California Friday Night Live Partnership.
“Friday Night Live (FNL) is making a significant impact on the lives of our youth, offering a positive and healthy alternative to substance abuse and promoting well-being through engaging activities and leadership development, amplifying the youth voice, according to the Amador Tuolumne Community Action Agency (ATCAA).
ATCAA coordinates the FNL program, which provides a safe platform for students in grades 5 through 12 to explore their interests, build connections, and become active leaders in their community. Calling it “investing in our future,” ATCAA says that a recent $240,000 grant awarded to the program will enable the expansion of programs in more schools, providing a positive influence on a wider scale and signifies its vital role in shaping a brighter future for our youth.
“Friday Night Live serves as a passport to a world of fun, learning, and holistic development for our students,” shared ATCAA. These youth-led, youth-focused programs seamlessly integrate educational and skill-building activities into students’ schedules, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.”
ATCAA provided this list of benefits for youth:
- Substance Abuse Prevention: FNL programs equip students with the knowledge and tools to make healthy choices regarding drugs and alcohol.
- Leadership Development: Students take the lead in planning events, outreach initiatives, and community service projects, fostering valuable leadership skills and youth advocacy.
- Mental Health and Wellness: FNL promotes healthy relationships and positive coping mechanisms, contributing to a stronger mental well-being for students.
- Exploration and Skill Building: The program offers a variety of activities that cater to diverse interests, allowing students to discover new passions and develop new skills.
- Individually Crafted Curriculum: Each program curriculum is created based on the needs of administrators and students alike.
To join in the FNL fun, parents, educators, and community members are encouraged to call one of the Youth Development Coordinators listed below:
Contact:
- Tiffany Rizzo-Weaver, FNL Youth Development Coordinator, trizzo-weaver@atcaa.org
- Victoria Smith, FNL Youth Development Coordinator, vsmith@atcaa.org
- Linda Shiery, FNL Youth Development Coordinator, lshiery@atcaa.org
