Business of the Week: Love Our Youth

This week, we’re spotlighting a crucial need in our East Orlando community: robust, engaging programs for our teenagers. In a world that’s increasingly complex and demanding, providing safe spaces and enriching experiences for youth aged 13-18 is more important than ever.

Our program, designed specifically for this age group, recognizes the unique challenges teens face. From navigating the pressures of school and social life to preparing for the future, adolescence is a pivotal time. We believe in empowering our teens, giving them the tools and support they need to thrive.

One of our flagship initiatives is the bi-weekly Teen Lounge. This isn’t just a hangout; it’s a carefully curated space where teens can connect, create, and learn. Each session features a different theme, ranging from artistic expression through art nights to relaxed movie nights, and even vital leadership training. These diverse activities foster creativity, build camaraderie, and develop essential life skills.

Beyond the lounge, we’ve established a Teen Advisory Board, a vital platform for youth voice. This group of 10 dedicated teens meets monthly to address critical issues impacting their peers. They tackle mental health concerns, explore college and career pathways, and brainstorm solutions to challenges facing our community. Their insights are invaluable, and they serve as a direct link between the youth and the Avalon Park Board, ensuring teen perspectives are heard and considered in community planning.

Why is this so important? Teen programs like ours provide:

Safe Spaces: A refuge from the pressures of daily life, where teens can be themselves.

Skill Development: Opportunities to learn valuable life skills, from leadership and communication to creative problem-solving.

Community Connection: A sense of belonging and involvement in the larger community.

Mental Health Support: A network of peers and mentors who understand and support their emotional well-being.

Future Preparation: Guidance and resources for navigating college and career choices.

Investing in our teens is investing in the future of East Orlando. By providing them with the support, resources, and opportunities they need, we empower them to become confident, capable, and engaged members of our community. We invite you to join us in supporting these vital programs and ensuring that every teen in East Orlando has the chance to shine.

Darius Carlo

Program Coordinator

L.O.V.E. Our Youth Inc