"Being a part of FNL has given me an opportunity that I would not normally have to reach out into my community and make changes." Melinda, age 17
To join or start a Friday Night Live chapter, please contact:
Kiely Hosman
Program Coordinator
925.687.8844 ext. 241
kiely@chd-prevention.org
Research shows that when young people are in a supportive environment that is rich with opportunities, they are less likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors and more likely to achieve in school. As the Contra Costa County coordinator for Friday Night Live (FNL), we challenge youth to grow through projects that make a difference in their communities.
One of the largest youth-serving systems in the state, FNL gives high school students a voice and the training to be active leaders in their communities. Adult staff support teens with the leadership skills to tackle difficult issues in their schools and communities such as alcohol and other drug abuse.
Youth assess the problem, create and implement an action plan and collaborate with school and community groups doing similar work in the county. It is a powerful partnership where youth can drive real change at the local policymaking level.
In the process, FNL members gain life-long skills in public speaking, project planning, conflict resolution and time management.
This innovative program engages teams of high school students to mentor teams of middle school students who face the challenges of transitioning to freshman year and young adulthood.
In addition to structured one-on-one mentoring, group training helps to strengthen resiliency with best-practice models in alcohol and drug education, refusal skills and conflict resolution.
Part of our efforts to reduce youth access to alcohol, this coalition brings the community together to find solutions to problem alcohol outlets. We create a forum where concerned parents, youth, alcohol retailers and law enforcement work as partners to address the issue.
Alcohol and Other Drug Services Division of Contra Costa County Health Services.