If you want to learn about the original conception and mission of this program, read my
What is YAAS? post. TL;DR: It's a weekly group for youth age 14+ where we do community service work, library programs, host guest presenters, and make connections with peers in a safe and welcoming environment.
This week, we were originally going to have an off-duty high school science teacher show us some "magic science" using physics and everyday objects. Unfortunately, he had to cancel, so I came up with a different idea. I volunteer for
One N Ten, a youth shelter and community center based in Phoenix with satellite groups that meet throughout the county and beyond. Since the Mesa and Queen Creek groups are closest to my library, I decided to invite them to YAAS for a meet-and-greet. The idea is that Mesa meets on Monday night, YAAS meets on Tuesday night, and Queen Creek meets on Thursday night; there's no conflict on group times, so why not invite the youth of the groups to attend all three?
I am delighted to report that the program was a huge success. We had the highest attendance since melted crayon night, and everyone had a great time decorating "cookies" (graham crackers with icing and sprinkles), playing board games, and making duct tape crowns. I hope the new youth decide to come back again!
The first set of pictures is an emotional roller coaster. Shortly after the last Jenga picture was taken, the whole pile collapsed in an epic crash.
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| Diligently looking for the right beads... |
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| ...and being silly at the same time. |
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| We really love Capri Sun around here |
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| Board games and new friends |
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| "Cookie" decorating station |
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| Duct tape crowns |
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| They made me a crown too! |
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