Finding balance

Finding balance

There’s no denying that sensational headlines, controversy and extreme examples of behaviour sell media. How many times have you read another news story about youth and their selfish behaviour?

Last night I experienced a flip side to this coin at the Lismore Kids in Community Awards night. More than 100 young people and several mentors were acknowledged and celebrated. Young people supporting others with disabilities, raising awareness and funds for many causes, supporting other students with complex needs and demonstrating outstanding community spirit were recognised.

I was privileged to applaud young people who had overcome personal barriers and sometimes tragedy to stand on the stage, proud and beaming. Mentors were also acknowledged.

Congrats to our ACON team members Ian, Rose and Amber who were recognised for supporting the Richmond River High Rainbow Diversity Day. The ongoing beneficial connections made with students and teachers were the real reward.

In our Northern Rivers GLBT backyard we have our own bunch of active and insightful young people.

Sean has recently become involved with GLBT activism and is organising Northern Rivers’ National Day of Action. It is shaping up to be an interesting rally to support marriage for all. Meet at 12pm at Spinks Park on Sunday 1 August.

-˜D’, a student, is organising Ins & Outs. This is a unique opportunity for young women to learn facilitating and mentoring skills with a view to sharing these skills within their own communities and networks. Ring Amber for details.

The exciting buzz for ACON regarding GLBT young people is a pilot of a new project. Held at ACON it will start on Wednesday 22 July, 4-6pm. With art activities and health information, this will be a creative, fun way to explore specific issues for young people of diverse sexuality. Again call Amber.

And don’t forget, Tropical Fruits our premier GLBT social organisation welcomes young people. Ring 6622 6440.

Young people of diverse sexuality can also become a -˜book’ as part of Lismore Living Library. Check it out at http://www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au/site/index.php and follow the links.

info: If you want any information about groups, services, organisations or community events taking place in Northern Rivers, you can contact Sioux Harrison at ACON on 6622 1555 or [email protected]

Sioux Harrison is Administration and Volunteer Officer for ACON Northern Rivers.

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One response to “Finding balance”

  1. This is fantastic, I am so glad to see “good” being glorified for once, well done.