Cultivating Positive Relationships
Cultivating Positive Relationships 001: with Sarah Weisbarth of Discover You
Two types of relationships stand out to me, those we create with the youth in our programs and the ones we forge with the adults who support those students. The ROCK Center for Youth Development offers opportunities for youth to participate in fun, safe, and effective programs and events where they experience a sense of belonging. Discover You™ develops connections with youth directly and through the connections we foster with adults.
Students enjoy a Saginaw Spirit game and celebrate with the SVSU Cardinal. Outings and activities done with others promote belonging and positive engagement with the community.
Relationships Matter
We are created to be in relationships with one another, we are inherently social creatures born with a desire to belong.
A quick Google search will enumerate the many benefits of being in close relationship with others:
emotional and mental health
physical wellbeing
longevity
happiness
ability to develop and grow
sharing joy
accomplishing things together
struggling through adversity
The list is truly endless.
Youth in The ROCK After school program learn to sew and quilt. Doing craft and hobby activities creates an opportunity to learn together, share creative ideas, and try new things with friends.
There are benefits for young people and adults alike, across cultures, generations and genders. Just ask your friends or family (that you have a list of people to ask tells me you are in relationship with others 😊) just ask them, or the stranger next to you as you are reading this, what is important to them or what they like to do or what they are looking forward to this month? I pretty much can guarantee you will hear something that involves spending time with someone. Relationships matter.
Studies are showing an interesting range of statistics around relationships.
One says on average individuals have 3 – 5 close friends, another says 16.
Apparently we start losing friendships starting at age 25
And most friendships last 7 years.
When I head into classrooms either with youth or adults my ability to create a space where we can talk openly is crucial. I essentially have to create relationalship (made that word up). I have to be able to relate to them, listen, share vulnerably, empathize with their experience. Without that relational space they will not be able to hear my message. It is through creating positive relationships I can help them connect with others. Relationships matter. Because people matter.
Through relationships you are developing with youth in your span of care, you have the ability to inspire courage and confidence in youth through your connection.
Top Tip: Smile at people throughout your day and ask them, “what is going well for you today?”
Get connected: Sign your teen up for a summer camp program! A safe, fun, and effective summer program helps young people develop positive relationships and social skills.
Get involved: Don’t have a teen to sign up, support one through volunteering. You might just get the same relational benefit.
Sarah Weisbarth
Discover You™ Director
The ROCK Center for Youth Development
Area youth enjoying some silly swim time as part of a pool party at The ROCK and Greater Midland Area Community Center.
Do you have a Midland County story you would like to tell that aligns with our vision?