There are certain things that transcend language barriers, such as being part of a collaborative effort that seeks to provide meaningful services to youth and their families. We enjoyed such an experience Monday morning when members of the Youth Advocacy and Involvement Office met with Russian officials to explain the various ways we connect with constituents.
Child Advocate Trishana Jones, SADD Coordinator Harriett Southerland and I met with the six members of the Russian group, their translator and a representative of GLOBALHOUSE, which coordinated the exchange. We talked about our signature programs, including the State Government Internship Program, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Youth Legislative Assembly and State Youth Councils, and the case advocacy we provide to youth and families statewide.
Our guests said they were especially interested in how we work to empower youth to take on leadership roles and how we engage partners, including local governments, to facilitate programs that help to build stronger communities. They seemed impressed by how we leverage established relationships, and solicit financial support from public and private entities, to make it possible for more North Carolina youth to benefit from advocacy services or participate in quality service learning opportunities.
We are grateful for the chance to connect with colleagues who do similar work so far away, and gratified to realize that our experiences may help them better serve Russian youth.
