Registration is now under way for the Canton Township Lead #LikeAGirl, Be A #ModelMan, and Youth Advisory Council programs for the 2022-2023 school year. These free programs are available through The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center for local youths who are interested in developing critical life skills, such as self-confidence, interpersonal communication skills, stress management, and leadership skills.
Lead #LikeA Girl was developed in 2015 by The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center. This free program enables participants to challenge themselves, discuss relevant issues that young girls face with their peers, and foster relationships with female role models within the community. This award-winning program serves a diverse group of young women ages 11-16 and is designed to change the way that these participants, and the community-at-large, think about what it means to Lead #LikeAGirl and ultimately live #LikeAGirl.
Be A #ModelMan, established in 2016, is designed to grow six core values, including: integrity, empathy, compassion, inner strength, courage, and respect. Monthly one-day themed workshops take place from October through May and are designed to inform program participants ages 11-16 about healthy masculinity, leadership and community involvement. In addition, this program curriculum encourages participants to interact and foster relations with public servants and community “model men,” who embody the core values of the program.
The Canton Youth Advisory Council comprises a group of area high school students who make a difference in their community. Members participate in community service projects, lead special events, participate in local decision-making, and award annual grants to organizations that benefit Canton Youth.
“Each year, we look forward to getting to work with such a bright and talented group of young people,” said Chelsea Straub, program coordinator. “We watch participants grow into confident, well-spoken, and understanding youth change-makers.”
Program participants must meet one of the following criteria in order to apply: reside in Canton; attend a Canton school; or be a current member of The B.L.O.C.K Youth & Teen Center. Interested future candidates are encouraged to apply through The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center. Applications are currently available on The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center website at www.cantonfun.org/theblock and must be submitted by Sept. 23. Program space is limited, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Local volunteer and financial support have helped these programs expand their positive programming opportunities. Some current and past sponsors include MASCO, Community Financial Credit Union, Eastern Michigan University, and the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for individuals, businesses, and foundations to assist in the development of future sessions. To become involved, please contact Laura Mortier at (734) 394-5376 or email laura.mortier@cantonmi .gov.
The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center, located on the third floor of the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road provides a teen-friendly environment where students from ages 11-17 can participant in supervised afterschool programs, social events, and activities.
For more information about Lead #LikeAGirl, Be A #ModelMan, The Youth Advisory Council, or The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center, visit www.cantonfun.org/theblock or call (734) 398-5570.
