Volume 32 | April 2021
Monthly News and Updates
The African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) wants to stay connected with you! Enjoy interesting facts, educational information, highlights and upcoming events. Have a question or comment? Please contact us at info@aaylc-co.org.
Did You Know?
Having a larger community base and support system builds resilience. Research continues to support the theory that people with better relationships have higher emotional intelligence, think more creatively, and are more likely to ask for help. Being a part of a community also means we have other people to pay attention to, nurture, and remind us that we are not the only ones who are suffering and rebuilding. (https://www.centermh.org/)
April 2021 Student of the Month - Ciera Bowens
As a current junior at Mesa Ridge High School in Colorado Springs, Ciera is a star shining bright. Holding a GPA of 3.8, this aspiring songstress is making waves at her school. As an active member of the volleyball, basketball, and tennis teams, she is no stranger to hard work, commitment, and teamwork. The work does not end on the courts. She is a recipient of her school’s “Presidential Award.” Ciera also loves to serve her community through her church’s food pantry. With a strong aspiration to top America’s music charts, Ciera is keeping her academics in focus and setting her sights on a four-year college after she graduates.
Connection Reflection
3/6/21 (Sat) - Annual African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC)

Our virtual workshops from January 23rd through March 6th were a resounding success! A sincere thank you for the hard work of our planning committee to create such an incredible program. We would also like to thank the numerous community leaders that stepped forward to bring educational and empowering messages to youth in grades 6 - 12. Lastly, we would like to thank all the students and parents who spent their Saturday mornings with us. We continue to emphasize our mission to educate, empower, and enlighten youth to become critical thinkers, responsible citizens, and embrace the traditions, histories, and cultures of their communities. With renewed support and dedication, the future is bright.
Resilience Strategies from Community Partners
How to Build Your Resilience During Challenging Times 
By Shirley Martinez, MS, Director of Diversity Equity & Inclusion for Pikes Peak Library District

Resilience can help get us through and overcome hardships Alas, it is not something we can say that we inherit though. Resilience is built over time with experiences we have within our own unique makeup. With resilience we balance the negative with the positive for opportunities to be better and to overcome challenges. Read More
Life Can Be Challenging
By Dr. Detra Duncan, Fountain City Council at Large

Life can be difficult during the best of days. Many of you reading this article know what it is like to face challenges. Whether it’s grades, friends, or family members, life can bring its challenges. However, you can live courageously through them. Challenges are real. Learning how to overcome them will help you stay centered and remain calm under pressure.
Upcoming Events
4/17/21 (Sat) - Wynn/Marchman Scholarship Deadline

Our scholarships provide financial assistance to seniors who are interested in pursuing college or vocational studies upon graduation. Grants are given to assist students in grades 6 - 11 who are interested in participating in an educational program, event or activity sponsored by their school, church or community. To date, over $240,000 has been awarded to students. Any student in the Pikes Peak Region in Colorado is eligible to apply. The deadline is April 17th. For more information about our program, please click here.

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4/24/21 (Sat) - 4th Annual Book Summary Lottery

“If there is a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, you must be the one to write it.” —Toni Morrison. We are pleased to announce our 3rd Annual Book Summary Lottery. Simply read one book by an African American author, write a book summary and personal reflection, and submit your work. Students will be entered into a drawing. Two middle school students and two high school students will be selected to win a $100 Amazon gift card. Submission deadline is Saturday, April 24th. For more information, please click here.
You Can Make a Difference!
When you shop at Amazon, they donate 0.5% of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to the African American Youth Leadership Conference. Why not shop and donate at the same time? Sign up today, it's FREE! Help us support the youth. For more information, click here.
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