When 2020 began, I was honored to assume the role of Youth Communication’s new executive director. I was excited about our plan to grow our education program, and to support youth across NYC to build social and emotional skills through our unique story-based approach. This past year has been one that nobody expected. We’ve experienced trauma and tragedy as a result of a global pandemic; horrifying racial violence followed by an inspiring surge of advocacy for racial justice; and an unpredictable presidential election. Through it all, we’ve stood together, we’ve listened to our teens, and we’ve leaned upon all of you. Throughout the year our teens stepped up to courageously share the stories of their own lived experiences, continuing to inspire their peer readers and equip adults with a deeper understanding of their perspectives. Watch this video of the highlights of what we’ve accomplished with your support, in 2020. As 2020 concludes, I have a renewed energy and passion to expand Youth Communication’s impact. Our work to amplify the voices of youth from historically marginalized communities has never been more crucial. Student engagement, well-being, and social and emotional needs are at the center of our conversations about education. As we look toward 2021, there will be a heightened need for our resources, which center the voices of youth — particularly youth of color — to be accessible and available to educators in NYC and around the country. Empowering more young people and educators with our story-based resources is my personal mission as executive director, and I can’t do it without your help. Please join our mission by making a contribution today.We are determined to not only survive this tumultuous period, but to create a world in which our most vulnerable young people thrive in any and every learning environment. Today we ask for your support. Our community of youth and educators need you now more than ever. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, healthy holiday season and New Year!
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