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Mpls. initiative strives to give youths a creative and healing outlet

Date: October 3, 2024

Press Clip Source: Public News Service
Link to Source: Here

 By: Mike Moen, Producer

A high school student ith curly hair smiles at the camera. In the background is an array of canvases and art supplies.
Experts said painting and other art projects can provide a safe and therapeutic outlet for youths to convey their thoughts, emotions and experiences. (Adobe Stock)

Social behavior experts said teens have fewer safe spaces to gather, with technology-driven isolation complicating matters. It is more pronounced in places with documented violence, but a Minnesota project could keep some of the issues at bay.

This month, the organization Nonviolent Peaceforce begins specialized programming at its community hub in North Minneapolis. FBI data show a downward trend in violent crime but North Minneapolis still sees the lingering effects of shootings and other incidents.

Odell Wilson, community peacebuilder for the group, said the dedicated space allows middle and high school students to participate in healing circles and more activities.

"Certain days, on a Saturday or a Thursday, we might have journals or painting to express yourself through the arts," Wilson explained.

He indicated they are planning to set up a music studio as another outlet for teens looking for social and emotional relief from any neighborhood tension. The youth programming space sits inside the gathering hub Nonviolent Peaceforce opened in North Minneapolis last year to foster meaningful conversations among community members.

Nonviolent Peaceforce offers training in de-escalation tactics around the world. It said it sometimes can be hard for youths in troubled areas to have such conversations with family members or school staff. Wilson and other organizers hope to convince teens living in those areas they are not alone.

"It's kind of having that second home to come and to vent to or come in to just be heard," Wilson added.

He emphasized they want teens to find their voice and identity if outside forces are preventing it from happening. Nonviolent Peaceforce received a $17,000 grant from the City of Minneapolis for the new programming.

Disclosure: Nonviolent Peaceforce contributes to our fund for reporting on Criminal Justice, Human Rights/Racial Justice, Peace, and Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.

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