The day-long event was sponsored by Madison County STOP-DWI, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and BRiDGES – Madison County Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.
Marla Velky-Reger, Cazenovia- based licensed social worker and fitness instructor presented on Mindful Connections: Disconnect to Connect. The conference was about putting down phones and electronic devices to make deeper, more meaningful connections with friends, family and others. Students interacted with students and advisors from other schools throughout the day, strengthening their social skills and deepening friendships. Through the skills of learning to listen and truly connect, and being mindful (fully present), they learned that they can build stronger relationships and become stronger leaders.
Students commented how the conference was inspiring. By the end of the day, they practiced ways to pay attention and be fully present, and ways to relax, or get energized. Each school group came up with action plans to improve themselves, their schools or families and their communities; which included reducing or limiting their personal time on electronic devices, practicing and spreading mindfulness and kindness through different activities in their schools, using social media in positive ways, and spending more purposeful time with family and friends.
Madison County Sheriff Allen Riley stressed that “we teach our children right from wrong, and teach them how important it is to be part of your community; that there is no tolerance for individuals who drink when they are under 21, and certainly no tolerance for driving while intoxicated or impaired. We need to carry this message directly to the kids in our community, and to also reinforce that there is no tolerance for distracted driving – period. When you are caught, there are stiff penalties coming your way” said Riley.
SADD is peer-to- peer education, prevention, and activism organization dedicated to preventing destructive decisions, particularly underage drinking, other drug use, risky and impaired driving, teen violence, and teen suicide. SADD’s mission is to empower young people to successfully confront the risks and pressures that challenge them throughout their daily lives. SADD fosters a sense of belonging and promotes resiliency, leadership, and advocacy skills so that young people make positive life decisions that will carry them throughout life.