Anna Blevins organized the conference as part of her Gold Award project.
STERLING, Ill. — Teens from QCA are organizing creative writing conferences for teens and adults to help participants improve and manage their mental health.
The “Teen Writers Shining a Light on Mental Health Conference” will be held at Woodlawn Arts Academy on Saturday, August 3rd from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Ages 11-18 are welcome to attend. Tuition is $45 per person plus lunch is provided. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. To apply, download the application here.
At the conference, teens will learn how to effectively use various forms of creative writing to support their mental health. Participants will take part in creative writing workshops that include poetry, fantasy, non-fiction, journalism, and short stories. Event attendees will also learn how to use writing as a tool to manage their own mental health.
At the same time, adults who attend the conference will receive a complimentary Youth Mental Health First Aid certification. Participants in this portion will be equipped with the tools to understand, identify and address the signs of mental health and substance abuse issues in children and teens. Advance registration is required by contacting Woodlawn Arts Academy in person, by calling 815-626-4278, or through the academy’s website.
The conference was founded by local Girl Scout Anna Blevins.
“Research shows that mental health is just as important as physical health, and mental health among teenagers is on the decline. The Teen Writers Conference provides teens with the skills and knowledge to use creative writing to positively impact their mental health and well-being,” Blevins said.
She organized the conference as part of her Gold Award Project for Girl Scouts in partnership with Woodlawn Arts Academy, Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois and NAMI Sauk Area.
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