WBGU-PBS to hold summit on youth at risk

Reservations are still being taken for a community leadership summit on “Saving Lives: Reducing High-Risk Behaviors In Area Youth,” to be held Jan. 5 under the auspices of the National Center for Outreach. WBGU-PBS will host the summit from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its offices at 245 Troup St.

Teen suicides and suicide attempts last spring heightened awareness and concern for youth across our region. A recent study found that in Ohio, attempted suicides have risen 30 percent over the past five years, with a significant increase in attempts by young women. Every community is dealing with high-risk youth, and WBGU-PBS is looking to engage communities across northwest and west central Ohio in an effort to foster collaborative partnerships, aggregate resources, and find creative ways of dealing with these issues.

Representatives from schools (including student leaders), educational services, children's resource centers, substance abuse agencies, law enforcement, juvenile courts, park and recreation agencies, churches, the medical community, colleges and universities are invited to take part in the summit. There is no charge for attending the event, which begins with refreshments at 8:30 a.m. and includes lunch.

Jean Gerard, human development and family studies, will share findings from her nationwide study about the personal and social factors that influence adolescent health and well-being, and at-risk adolescents' need for caring, community connections and support. Bill Ivoska, vice president of student services at Owens Community College, will share findings of research he has conducted with youth in Lucas and Wood counties to track drug and alcohol usage, along with the factors that enhance or suppress their use.

Seating is limited and should be reserved by Wednesday (Dec. 22) by calling Deborah Boyce at 2-7023 or emailing summit@wbgu.bgsu.edu.