STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK
The public is invited to learn about the importance of “Breaking the Mold” when The Advocates’ teen interns host their seventh annual open house from 4 to 6 p.m. today—Saturday, Feb. 29—in the conference room of the Limelight Hotel.
The ETC’s (Every Teen Counts) will present art, poetry, performances and music by the all-youth band Jenny and the Bets as they show how to “Break the Mold” by bringing awareness to and rejecting harmful expectations and stereotypes about who we should be. Refreshments will be served.
The event encourages viewers to explore who they are and celebrate it.
Teens have created art that highlights their individuality, as well as what the world would look like if everyone could be themselves.
“If everyone could be themselves, I believe the world would be a much more open-minded, inclusive and vibrant place to live,” said Wood River High School Senior Calvin Geissler. “People would no longer feel the need to judge others but, rather, want to love and accept everyone around them.”
Geissler has attended the event twice before.
“I’m excited to come to this year’s event because teen dating violence and abusive relationships are very prevalent in our community. I believe this is a great event that reaches out to educate the public and offer support to those who need it,” he said.
Poetry readings will begin at 4:45 p.m. The ETC interns will speak at 5:15 p.m., then show a short “Breaking the Mold” video.
Representatives from various teen groups, such as the Compassionate Leaders, Amnesty International, Planned Parenthood Teen Council, Bluebirds and Pride Club, will be on hand.
Students who attend will be entered into a raffle for a $100 Amazon gift card.