Join us for the fifth in our six-part series on asset-based approaches to community violence prevention and intervention for out-of-school- time (OST) professionals. This session will focus on elevating student voice in safety planning and violence prevention efforts, with particular emphasis on how OST programs can support youth-led initiatives.  

Participants will explore strategies that recognize students not just as future leaders, but as current partners in preparedness and prevention. Through practical tools, guidance, and a district spotlight on the TEEN CERT program in Lincoln County, Oregon, participants will learn how OST programs can create meaningful opportunities for students to lead emergency preparedness activities, promote safety awareness among peers, and strengthen community resilience.  

This session will feature insights from local education leaders and highlight resources from the Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools (REMS) TA Center. Participants will leave with tangible strategies and resources to structure youth engagement; build leadership capacity; foster youth engagement in safety culture; and support career readiness and workforce development in emergency response, public service, and community safety roles.