PhotoVoice
In order to create a youth voice in our efforts, SPIFFY has developed a PhotoVoice project focused on underage drinking, allowing youth to express their own views about their community while learning photographic skills. PhotoVoice is part of an international initiative that gives people an opportunity to express their views on issues in their own communities and to inspire social change.
SPIFFY’s 2009 PhotoVoice project (exhibit image gallery) focused on Northampton. Local teens created an exhibition of their own photos and stories that expressed their perspectives of underage drinking in their neighborhoods. Together, the teens’ photos explore where and how Hampshire County youth are exposed to alcohol, why they drink, and what is the impact on their families, their friends, and their own lives. The exhibit opened at Forbes Library in Northampton and will soon be on display in the Mayor’s office at Northampton City Hall.
- For more information about PhotoVoice
in your community, contact the Community Prevention Specialist - PhotoVoice Resources
- PhotoVoice Northampton (PowerPoint)
Youth Recognition Mini-Grants
The SPIFFY Youth Development Committee awards mini-grants to local schools and community groups who initiate activities that recognize youth for their contributions to school, family and community. SPIFFY Youth Recognition Mini-Grants are another way that the Coalition celebrates the great work that youth do in and for their communities.
- View Mini-Grants application and selection criteria
- For more information about the Mini-Grants
program, contact the Coalition Coordinator
Youth Recognition Presentations
Schools, parent groups, civic groups and businesses want to recognize the great work that youth do but don’t always know where to start. The staff and partners of the SPIFFY Coalition have researched the most effective ways to recognize youth, and have put together a short, engaging presentation on how to celebrate young peoples’ contributions to their communities.
- If you would like to learn more or want to book the FREE Youth Recognition Presentation,
Youth Development with Community Action!, contact the Coalition Coordinator
Community ACTION! Youth Programs
Community ACTION! Youth Programs is partnering with SPIFFY to increase youth development opportunities for teens in Northampton.
- For more information, contact: Glen Franklin, Youth Group Coordinator at gfranklin@communityaction.us, Community ACTION! (413-475-1795) www.communityaction.us
The Youth Development Committee
SPIFFY’s Youth Development Committee develops programs and activities that engage, recognize and celebrate the creativity and hard work of youth across Hampshire County. All of the activities described above were initiated by the Youth Development Committee. We are looking for more people who care about the healthy development of youth to join our Youth Development Committee.
- Learn how you can be involved in planning youth-oriented prevention activities
in your community through the Youth Development Committee
