Empowering Youth Leaders
The Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Center (MI-YVPC), is set to host its 2nd Annual Learning Exchange from May 1–4, 2025, in Muskegon, Michigan. This event, organized in partnership with the T.R.I.G.G.E.R Project, aims to bring together youth leaders from Washington, DC, and Muskegon.
The goal is to foster collaboration and empower these young leaders to spearhead efforts in preventing gun violence within their communities.
Youth Voices in Action
At the core of this initiative are two influential youth advisory boards: Muskegon Violence Prevention (MVP) in Muskegon, MI, and Young Different Minds (YDM) in Washington, DC. These boards are actively engaged in addressing the root causes of gun violence, emphasizing the critical role of youth leadership in the process.
Building Leadership and Creativity
During last year’s exchange, Muskegon youth leaders visited Washington, DC, for prevention activities and a significant visit to the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
To keep up with the latest activities from the learning exchange, follow MI-YVPC and the T.R.I.G.G.E.R Project on Instagram
In the upcoming exchange, youth leaders from T.R.I.G.G.E.R and YDM will travel to Muskegon during National Youth Violence Prevention Week. This reciprocal exchange focuses on activities that build leadership, creativity, and a deeper understanding of violence prevention.
Key Activities:
Leadership Development: Participants will undertake team-building challenges on the ropes course at Camp Miniwanca, enhancing their leadership skills and teamwork capabilities.
Creative Expression: A spoken word workshop will amplify youth voices, allowing them to express their views on the root causes of gun violence and propose innovative solutions.
Community Engagement: Discussions will explore the risk and protective factors for gun violence, enabling participants to compare community experiences and pitch prevention projects to local leaders.
Recreational Activities: The weekend schedule includes a pool-party reception, campfires, bowling, and an invigorating polar bear plunge into Lake Michigan.
Youth Leadership – Making a Lasting Impact
Youth leadership is pivotal in the prevention of violence and firearm-related injuries. By empowering young leaders with the necessary skills, knowledge, and platforms, initiatives like the Learning Exchange provide youth with the tools to enact change in their communities. Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are crucial in developing effective prevention strategies and fostering a culture of peace and safety.
Conversation & Call to Action
The exchange will culminate in a youth-led Instagram Live event on Sunday, May 4. Participants will reflect on their experiences during National Youth Violence Prevention Week, sharing their insights on the importance of youth voice and activism in gun violence prevention.
The livestream will be available on the T.R.I.G.G.E.R. Project’s Instagram Page. We invite you follow along and join the conversation!