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Lauralton student plans event for city teens

Posted on Nov 17, 2005

By Dirk Perrefort, November 17, 2005
©2005CONNECTICUT POST (Used with permission)

MILFORD--A Lauralton Hall student, who believes that inner-city teens need a positive way to express themselves, hopes that an open mic program she has developed can provide this.

“There aren’t a lot of things to do for young people in New Haven,” said Serena Silva, a 17-year-old senior at the all-girl Catholic school. “I wanted to develop something that could be a positive outlet for the youth to detract from behavior that is not productive, such as gang violence that can get them into trouble.”

Silva, who has been active in a variety of community activities with the school, developed “Spittin’ Youth,” where young adults can express themselves through poetry, song, rap or any other medium they wish. The program was organized in conjunction with the Stetson library branch in New Haven.

“This was something that was put together by young adults for young adults,” said Diane Brown-Pettewey, the young adult librarian at the New Haven Public Library. “It can often be difficult to get young adults active in library programs.

“You have to find creative ways to reach out to the youth in the community. This event will help young adults in the city explore their own creativity.”

Silva, of New Haven, said she developed the program in the belief that it is important for people to get involved in their communities.

“A lot of people will complain about things but they don’t do anything about it,” she said. “I like to see positive changes in my community. Helping younger people in the community will have a greater affect in the long run.”

Yvonne Fosse-Previs, a guidance counselor at Lauralton Hall, said Silva serves as a role model to younger students and is a tremendous asset to the school.

“Her awareness and concern for the world around her is well beyond her years,” Fosse-Previs said. “She is a humble person and a very talented poet who leads by example. She makes us all more aware of our surroundings through her work.”

The open mic event will be held at the Stetson library branch, 200 Dixwell Ave. in New Haven, on Friday, from 6 to 10 p.m. All young adults in the New Haven area are invited to attend.
 

 



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