If you haven't already registered for the Gay Men's Health Summit, now is the time to do it! The summit takes place July 20th and 21st at George Washington University. There will be 40 workshops and two plenary discussions taking place over the course of the summit. Here is a sneak peak at one workshop you won't want to miss.
National Strategy For Black Gay Youth In America: Youth at Hope, Not At Risk
Frank Walker (YPS), DeAndre Roberts (YPS), DeAndre Preston (Code Red)
The aim of the National Strategy is to improve the quality of the lives of black gay youth living in the United States. By organizing those 25 years of age and younger (alongside elected officials and youth serving agencies), who want to take part in positive activities and gain support that will improve their condition of life, to help develop and improve their physical (health), mental, emotional, social and educational wellbeing.
This youth-led presentation will explore the goals of the strategy:
1.To promote community cohesion and create opportunities for black gay youth to engage with and be respected by the community
2.To identify culturally safe spaces and environments in every state to develop young people by empowering and inspiring them through positive activities, support and training and to recognize their achievements
3.To help Nation additional safe spaces and environments in traditional non-affirming institutions through practical experience and professional training
4.To ensure high quality services for black gay youth nationally and to promote the physical, intellectual, mental, emotional, social and well being of black gay youth, helping them achieve their full potential and aid their transition from youth to adulthood.
The second half will go over the results of the national youth survey completed by 2,500 black gay youth from all over the United States, with a special emphasis on the health related responses.
Frank Walker is the President/CEO of YPS, a national youth leadership and development organization for black LGBT youth under the age of 26. It hosts several national programs including youth with disabilities, in the military and those who are HIV positive.
DeAndre Roberts is the National Youth Vice President for YPS and in 2012 he was nominated for Youth Service America's 25 Most Powerful and Influential Young People In the World for his work on the national strategy.
DeAndre Preston is a member of CODE Red, a national social/viral marketing program of YPS.
This is only one of many workshops that will be presented this year. Click here for more information about the summit, including registration, housing, workshops and events around and during the summit.
