Discovering Strength, One Moment at a Time

Sometimes empowerment looks like learning about healthy relationships and discovering your own strengths.  And sometimes, it looks like learning that bug spray goes on you, not on the bugs.

This summer, ZOE advocates on the East Coast had the opportunity to spend time with a group of young people during a special multi-day experience focused on confidence, creativity, healthy relationships, and simply having space to enjoy being young.

The first few days included activities such as affirmation cards, expressive arts, poetry, crafts, vision boards, and conversations about healthy relationships. Each activity created opportunities for the youth to reflect, create, and recognize their own strengths.

Then came a day outdoors.

The group spent time exploring nature, interacting with animals, walking through the woods, and discovering little things along the way. There were frogs, wild berries, water, plenty of laughter, and even a memorable lesson about the proper use of bug spray.

One of the sweetest moments was seeing how eager the youth were to capture what they were experiencing. They took photos and videos and talked about sharing them with people they loved.

For young people navigating difficult circumstances, moments that may seem ordinary can carry real significance. A day outside can become a chance to experience something new. A vision board can create space to imagine the future. An affirmation can help someone begin to recognize their own worth. And a photo can become a reminder of a good moment worth holding onto.

We are grateful for opportunities like these, where young people can learn meaningful skills while also having room to explore, create, laugh, and simply be young.

Through collaboration with local organizations and caring advocates, ZOE is able to help create spaces where young people are encouraged, supported, and reminded that their stories still hold possibility.