One voice, trying to make a positive change with teens can be heard by many who when there is a chance to come together, what an impact it can make in its effectiveness.

The time has arrived for the Fifth Annual Teen Summit, which is sponsored by Zeta Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. in collaboration with other Greek organizations and sponsors. These organizations are Vidalia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.

Lasting impact changes occur when organizations unite and become a powerful force together. This event is being held March 21 from 8 a.m. to noon at Alcorn State University School of Nursing Natchez campus. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

Our mission is to educate, empower and enrich the lives of our youth. We will also strive to assist in developing leadership skills and attitudes as well as provide our youth with avenues to solve problems relative to our community.

This event is open and free to all the teens and youth in the Miss-Lou area and it will engage the youth in discussions concerning science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). They will leave with an understanding that math and science proficiency is becoming increasingly critical for current and future jobs. The teens will also be involved in open and interactive dialog workshops facilitated by area leaders on topics of interest such as health, stop the violence/bullying, academic excellence, and college preparation.

The sponsors want our youth to regain hope in the future, have inspirations to dream big and develop a positive outlook about life. We are relying on the support of this community in encouraging our youth to come out and be a part of this summit. We would like for  you to help us make this event a success and to show our youth that we, as adults, have not given up on them.

It is a blessing to see continued growth in this activity each year, and we will strive to continue to serve as many individuals as possible. Not only will the participants receive valuable information, but also enjoy a complimentary lunch and have a chance to win door prizes.

All of these activities will be at no cost to the participants. It is our goal that each participant will leave with great inspiration to be more productive citizens — inspirired to help make a difference in their homes, churches, schools and the communities where they live.

Alma H. Fletcher is program chair for Zeta Delta Omega Sorority of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.