We‘ve Got Work to Do with Gen Y in Nevada
Many young people in Nevada are bleeding in silence from depression and drugs. Others are self-destroying by engaging in early teenage sex, dropping out of high school, being suicidal and violent. They need some help from out community. It appears our community is turning a blind eye or not doing enough to ameliorate these issues affecting young people across Nevada.
According to Guttmacher Institute, in 2006, Nevada had the highest teenage pregnancy rate in the nation. It also holds the lead nationwide with the worst high school drop out rate according to Annie E. Casey Foundation. Nevada also has the infamous title of having one of the highest suicide rates in the country based on the state of Nevada Department of Human and Resources, Health Division 1996-1998.
Based on these statistics, you get a sense that if this situation is not promptly averted, it might lead to severe epidemic with devastating socio-economic issues across the state. There is an increasing need for a new kind of engagement with the young people. If you are a parent, Nevada needs you to step forward and help in some way to help our youths. Begin with those in your family, your neighborhood. Be a positive influence in the lives of those young people you know. It needs some sacrifice but it can be done.
We can not give up on our young people, after all the last generation did not give up on us. Like my colleague Joey Francis says, lets Think, Act and Do it. The time is now.
Gideon For-mukwai
Certified Resiliency Facilitator
[Others lifted me out of the trenches, now I must lift others out of the ditches.]
