Today’s teens encounter social, cultural, economic and technological hardships that continue to spread throughout our communities.

Unfortunately, the issues have become so prevalent in the Miss-Lou area that we must work together to educate, engage and empower our youth to develop coping mechanisms to overcome life’s challenges.

Many young people are struggling to manage in a society troubled with perplexities. Helen Keller declared, “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

Zeta Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., along with other Greek organizations, non-profit groups and local businesses, has scheduled a Teen Summit from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Alcorn State University School of Nursing, 15 Campus Drive in Natchez. The theme is “Celebrating Our Bright Future Leaders.” Guest speaker will be Kelly Thomas.

The goal is to provide the resources and materials for our teens to delve into difficult issues that are relevant to them, as they go through the everyday challenges of being teenagers. It is imperative that positive reinforcement resources, such as teen summits, are available to help guide and develop life skills to protect them from negative influences, including, but not limited to: absence of role models, gangs, suicide, violence, cyberspace/texting, drugs or alcohol, unintended pregnancies, disruption of school and friendship, obesity, bullying and racial gaps in school due to increased dropout rates.

The core of the summit, however, will be breakout sessions of small groups. Being sensitive to the topics, organizers were mindful about having presenters and facilitators with listening ears and compassionate hearts to those who may be struggling or those who may be shy about seeking help or learning about resources, which can be powerful for stressed youths with developing minds.

Attendees will be treated to refreshments, entertainment, team-building activities, door prizes, registration packets filled with information and goodies as well as lineups of inspirational and professional speakers.

Sponsors are Alcorn State University, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Natchez and Vidalia chapters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Knights of Peter Claver, The National Council of Negro Women, Jeremy Ephion, My Brother’s Keeper, Magnolia Medical Foundation and Magnolia Bluffs Casino.

We invite all teens in the Miss-Lou to attend. We hope that everyone can join us at this great event and help us to ensure a successful future for our youth.

DEBRA DAVIS is the vice president for Zeta Delta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Sorority Incorporated.