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Miss Arizona Speaks with ICAN Youth

April 22 , 2005 by EditorICAN-Improving Chandler Area Neighborhoods Youth Receive a Special Visit from Miss Arizona

Preparing for a day of volunteerism at the Walk to End Domestic Violence, ICAN youth receive a visit from Miss Arizona, Katherine Kennedy. Miss Arizona, who volunteers with the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, spoke with teen members at ICAN about domestic violence and its impact to youth on Thursday, April 21, 2005.

Fabian Valladolid, Prevention Specialist at ICAN, led the initiative with ICAN�s Teen Council members. Mr.. Valladolid shares that the Council serves to build character and leadership among ICAN�s teen members. Through community activism and volunteerism, youth members have opportunity to not only learn about issues impacting their neighborhoods but to develop social activism skills through service. Miss Arizona speaking to the youth was one of the many educational discussions held with the youth in preparation of their volunteerism at the Walk to End Domestic Violence on Saturday, April 26, 2005.

One ICAN youth member related in a discussion his own experience of living in home where violence occurs. His willingness to share his experience and to become a voice for other victims is described by Lyra McCoy, CEO at ICAN, as �empowering and motivating.� Ms. McCoy explains that through ICAN�s Teen Council, youth members are provided an opportunity to explore issues important to them and to become involved in their community in a meaningful way�such as volunteering.

Ms. McCoy further notes that the youth members at ICAN are truly inspiring. �Their resiliency and strength are to be admired. These youth face so many risk factors in daily living--such as poverty, violence, and substance abuse. Their leadership in tackling tough issues and creating positive change serve as an example to their peers and their community. We are very proud of our teens for their involvement in the Walk and for bringing greater awareness to the devastating issue of domestic violence.�

About ICAN:

ICAN-Improving Chandler Area Neighborhoods provides free, comprehensive after school programs that empower youth to be productive, self-confident and responsible citizens. Programs include education, healthy lifestyles, youth leadership, job training, and substance abuse and violence prevention. Free transportation is provided to those living in Chandler�s Redevelopment Area where ICAN is located - 201 S. Washington Street, Chandler, AZ 85225. To learn more about ICAN contact Lyra McCoy, CEO, at 480-821-4207 or visit our website at http://www.icanaz.org