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Part of the Story

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Teen Voices Matter

>Part of the Story is a book-based program that engages teens in grades 9-12 by exploring an important, real-life issue affecting them and their community through a book written by a regional author. Through discussion with the author, other teens, and community members, attendees discover ways to tackle the issue and the importance of using their voice. Each teen gets a free copy of the selected book when they register (while supplies last). Teens help choose the theme each year!

Part of the Story is a welcoming, safe event where teens can have rich conversations about topics that matter to them, in community with supportive adults. Teens build connections with one another, gain important knowledge and skills, and recognize that they can make a difference.

Past topics include “Immigration,” “Body Image,” “Bullying,” “Social Justice,” “Addiction,” and “Teen Mental Wellness.”

Let your voice be heard

Collaborate and Talk with Teens from around York County

Discussion is a huge part of what makes Part of the Story successful. Through open conversations with other teens and adults, this event creates an inclusive and safe space for teens to be creative, speak freely, and let their voice be heard.

What to expect during Part of the Story

The day includes a light breakfast, an interactive conversation with the featured author, small group activities and discussions with “Human Libraries.” A Human Library is a person who shares their experience and expertise with others. Teens break for lunch, which we provide.

In the afternoon, attendees will have a conversation with Lamar Advertising about ways to raise awareness around the day’s topic. Then you’ll work together on creative billboard designs. One group’s design is chosen by a panel of judges to be displayed on billboards around York County. Billboards are provided courtesy of Lamar Advertising.

Part of the Story 2024

The topic for 2024, chosen by prior-year teens, is Relationships

The 2024 Part of the Story book is The Dark Matter of Mona Starr by celebrated author and artist Laura Lee Gulledge. Gulledge is an Eisner Award nominated cartoonist, teaching artist, musical librettist, and collaborative muralist based in Charlottesville, VA. Her works explore visual storytelling at the intersection of wellness, whimsy, comics, co-creation, neurodiversity, and citizen artistry.

The Dark Matter of Mona Starr features themes such as: friendships, battling your inner doubts and fears, mental wellness, and more. All registrants will receive a free copy of the book signed by the author. Before attending the event, teens are encouraged to read it and join the author discussion on January 18.

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