#USA #San Rafael #Alcohol Justice #NextGen Youth Advocates #Health Event

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Community Fun

As Cinco de Mayo approaches, the NextGen Youth Advocates (NGYA)™, a commendable initiative under Alcohol Justice, invites the community to a free Health and Wellness Open House on May 4th and 5th at their offices in the Canal District of San Rafael, California. This unique two-day event is specifically designed for local youth and their families, offering a variety of engaging activities alongside crucial insights into healthy living and substance prevention.

A Weekend of Learning and Celebration

The open house will take place on Saturday, May 4 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and Sunday, May 5 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. With a carefully curated blend of educational workshops and interactive experiences, NGYA™ aims to promote a culture of wellness by making the community aware of healthy lifestyle choices. Expect gardening demonstrations, personal stories from youth advocates, and book giveaways, all geared towards encouraging positive life choices and community engagement.

NGYA™ co-instructors Chauncey and Susan Bryant share their enthusiasm: "Alcohol Justice is dedicated to empowering youth as leaders for today and tomorrow. We want them to know their voices can impact their communities, regardless of age.” This emphasis on youth leadership is vital as the contributors not only participate but actively lead many of the discussions and activities throughout the weekend.

Building a Future of Healthy Choices

By participating in the event, local youth will not only absorb valuable knowledge about substance prevention but will also learn about organic gardening and the benefits of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. The initiative underlines the importance of creating alcohol-free environments, referred to as “third places,” which serve as constructive social hubs for youngsters to gather and nurture friendships.

"We want to simplify substance prevention messaging and demonstrate that anyone can lead a healthy life," says Susan Bryant. With the ever-increasing pace of the digital world, this open house presents a rare opportunity for personal interaction, allowing attendees to build lasting connections and glean resources for effective decision-making.

Empowering Future Generations

NextGen Youth Advocates™ works hard to create a safe space for youth from San Rafael Canal District and Marin County, encouraging them to self-advocate and engender positive behaviors. The program is built around mutual learning experiences, focusing on how to create a healthy community through shared values and objectives. Through this initiative, participants are not just recipients of knowledge but are also taught how to stand up for civic needs that nurture healthier environments.

"Empowering kids is about teaching them to unite for change, to envision a better future, and to gain skills necessary for achieving that vision," emphasizes Raul Verdugo, Director of Advocacy at Alcohol Justice. This weekend's open house exemplifies that mission, offering tangible takeaways such as organic vegetables, seeds for gardening, and children's books, reinforcing the idea of healthy and vibrant living practices.

Event Details at a Glance:

• - What: Health & Wellness Open House hosted by NextGen Youth Advocates™
• - When: May 4, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM; May 5, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• - Where: Alcohol Justice, 24 Belvedere St., San Rafael, CA 94901

Supported by the Sierra Health Foundation and Marin County HEAL Collaborative, this upcoming event promises to be an engaging experience filled with learning, sharing, and community spirit. Join NGYA™ in making the most of these Cinco de Mayo festivities while empowering the next generation to embrace healthier choices.

For inquiries, contact Raul Verdugo at (310) 689-9401 or Carson Benowitz-Fredericks at (917) 426-6443.