Introduction of Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES) for Schools

Abstract of Introduction of Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES) for Schools Young people face emotional issues such as low self-esteem, depression and anxiety that are a source of great stress. Researches (Grossman, et al., 2004; Deckro, et al., 2010) showed that mind-body practices such as stretch, breathing exercise, and meditation, are many of the effective tools to reduce stress and maintain the physical and mental wellbeing. Yes-for-school Intro is a mindful wellbeing, life skill training program, integrates into schools to support the students acquire healthy and effective way to manage stress. Yes-for-school intro received the grant from Office of Engagement at Purdue to conduct sessions at two PE classes of Central Catholic Jr-Sr (CC) in 2014-2015. Ten Purdue students from Yesplus at Purdue student organization executed it and 118 students from CC attended with two PE teachers’ support. This outreach allowed Purdue students to support local school youth to practice the wisdom of being willingness to be available for others, and to build a bigger sense of belongingness with our Greater Lafayette community. The result of this program shows that 93% of total students reported after session, they “feel calm” in at 25 % better. They also shared these changes, “My mood is better” (74%), “My stress is less” (70%), “My focus and concentration is better” (65%), My anger and frustration is less (55%), and My sleep is better (46%). In conclusion, this program has shown the positive impact in helping participant students in managing their emotions and mind toward calmer, focused, in-control and healthy way