When presenting to local and national audiences, we pose this question:
Who in here thinks we (as a society) do a good job of valuing young people (especially older adolescents) in our country?
Not a single hand goes up. We then ask them to consider the valuation level when you add in race, disabilities, poverty, delinquency, etc. on top of being undervalued in general.
We have a lot of exciting and important work to do to with valuing and engaging young people in our homes, schools and communities. This site offers hope, support and resources for youth, parents, educators and communities to move in directions that better serve our young people, our selves, our communities, our world.
Dr. Metzger and the inspiring youth she works with encourage you to:
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Value all young people as part of the essential fabric of our communities, culture and world, both present and future. |
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Tap into the wellspring of gifts, talents, energy and wisdom that our young people have to offer. |
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Recognize, support and celebrate young people as the emerging young adults and the evolving adolescents they are. |
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Accept a huge, heartfelt thank you from us for helping this effort!! |
The "Inspiring Youth" Dr. Metzger works with come from programs that serve adolescents with special needs and risk factors. Although they have experienced many challenges in their lives, the youth bring their amazing talents, insights and energy to their Leadership class and Service Learning projects. Their outstanding efforts have earned them numerous awards.
Maure Ann Metzger, Ed. D.
has worked with at-risk and special needs youth for 25 years. Her passion and expertise is in the area of youth leadership and youth empowerment. Maure Ann created and facilitates L.E.A.D.E.R.S, a life-impacting youth leadership program and curriculum. She was awarded the MN Service Learning Practioner’s Award in 2008.
"I hold a deep appreciation for the profound value and contributions that our young people bring to the table of life. My life and professional work have been transformed by these young people, who they are and what they accomplish. It is truly an honor to journey with them. They are my heroes."