I Work With Teens (IWWT)

In early 2014, our program coordinator met with another local social service worker who served teens and discussed how difficult it was to connect with others who served youth, outside of trainings in the community. They decided to plan a lunch and learn meeting, and invite others who live to serve young people. What evolved was “I Work With Teens”—a monthly meeting that has taken place since June 2014.

I Work With Teens serves multiple goals:

• Bring in guest speakers and experts to inform the group about relevant topics.
• Create an organic opportunity for social service providers to meet and exchange information about their programs, events, resources and more.
• Celebrate and acknowledge the tremendous work local adults put forth to improve the lives of young people. Often, these adults work in very small programs/efforts and they really find value in being recognized and appreciated.

What adults say about IWWT

"IWWT has given me strength and endurance by not feeling alone, and excited to have a space of collaboration in improving the lives of others through a very turbulent time period called the teenage years."
​– Amanda R.

"Even though I am not able to join every meeting, IWWT is so helpful to me in realizing that there is a diverse group of individuals in the community who are doing similar work, and experiencing the same challenges, but that we all have the same passion, empathy, and overall goal to positively influence even one teenager's life. Sometimes this work can feel isolating and lonely, so it's helpful to get together with this group. It helps me re-energize and refocus."
– Jessica P., formerly worked at YWCA Clark County

"I love the IWWT meeting. It allowed me to network and build amazing connections to other service providers in our community and helped me bring my work into the schools!"
​​– Robin M., Janus Youth Programs

"IWWT provides a valuable resource for networking, brainstorming and, above all, the opportunity to hear of the successes and challenges of other teen service providers. Facilitated with compassion and humor, IWWT provides an excellent opportunity to recharge and reinvigorate with like-minded service providers for myself and my team."
​​– David H., Lifeline Connections

"I consider IWWT to be one of the most valuable meetings that I attend! IWWT has connected me with community resources and opportunities to learn about the ins and outs of those resources, which has helped me to share more meaningful information with the folks I work with."
​​– Michelle P., formerly worked at YWCA Clark County

"The connections, both work and personal, I have made at the IWWT meetings have advanced my knowledge and career."
​​– Stephen H., Children's Home Society