Teen Inspirators

Teen Inspirators is Oak Hill CDC's educational, leadership development, civic engagement and community building program for youth ages 11-17. The program, created by teens for teens, reduces the likelihood of at-risk behavior by promoting healthy lifestyles, providing educational and health-related workshops, leadership training, a sense of belonging, and engagement in community building activities. Teen Inspirators assume a leadership role in program development and direct the decision-making process. Teen Inspirators meets twice a week: Mondays for middle school students, and Fridays for high school students. Both groups participate in bi-weekly workshops on topics such as diversity, leadership development, relationships, and bullying. They also complete at least one community service project or neighborhood event each month, including park cleanups, community dinners, and block parties. The high school group also receives college prep programming, including visits to colleges, essay workshops, application and financial aid help, and mock interviewing.