vision2020
NEW TEEN GROUP--RAFT
I just wanted to take a second and tell you about a youth group that I,
Julie Rickard and Lori Baril started about 6 weeks ago in the Pullman
area.
The name of the group is RAFT (Raising Awareness For Teens).
RAFT is a new, nonprofit, youth group based in Pullman and
available to teens in all areas of the Palouse. The goal of RAFT is
to show teens how to have fun while remaining drug and alcohol
free. This is accomplished through camping trips, going to
Silverwood, rafting, hiking, volleyball, cookouts, speakers, community
service, and group meetings.
In the short period of time that RAFT has been in existence, the group
has had several pizza and pool parties, a volleyball party and barbecue,
and a fundraising dance at Rumors. Several adult volunteers
supervise all outings and activities to ensure safety and compliance with
the no drugs/alcohol rule. Up to this point, the volunteers have
been doctoral students in the counseling psychology program at Washington
State University. However, volunteers are always welcome and needed
if you know of someone who would like to assist the group. Parents
of members are discouraged from volunteering at meetings, outings, etc.,
so that members feel free to express themselves and just be.
Parents may, however, feel free to assist with planning, fundraising,
cooking, driving, or other needed functions for the group. Further,
donations are greatly needed as Lori & Julie have funded most of the
group activities up to this point. Please contact RAFT, if you or
your business would like to donate.
Currently, there are approximately 18 members both male and female.
Though, the group is predominantly male. Some of the kids have been
involved with the law, drugs and/or alcohol. However, we do have
some members who have never used or been in trouble. Several of the
parents have contacted us to let us know that they have already seen
positive changes in their kid and are very encouraged by the group.
So basically we feel like it is working and now we are working on
securing funding for activities.
We are planning a camping trip sometime at the end of June or early July
at Camp Larson. We also have a rafting trip in August set up.
Any teen is welcome to join us for any event/trip, even if they have not
attended the meetings.
Meetings are held every Monday night from 6-8pm at the WSU Visitors
Center in Pullman. 225 N. Grand Ave, behind Washington Mutual
Bank. No need to call ahead and everyone is welcome!
Contact Lori Baril at 509-332-4566 for more information.
Thanks,
Julie Rickard
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