We always concentrate on the physical impact COVID has had on our youth but we tend to overlook the mental impact. We are talking about childhood trauma like we have never seen before because the impacts effects youth in different ways.  According to Sage Journal, "The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of children and adolescents is multifaceted and substantial. Survey studies regarding child and adolescent mental health amid COVID-19 indicated that anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress, and tension are the most observed symptoms. Positive coping strategies with family and social support may be important to achieving better outcomes." 

In an effort to combat the negative mental impact COVID had on youth, the CES teamed up with students from Eastern Kentucky University to offer programming at the local Teen Center called Relax and Chill Days!  The teen center hosts children that normally get overlooked because most have been labeled "at risk" youth.  The CES has worked with the Teen Center for multiple years and I am the Chair of the Teen Center committee.  Knowing the needs and the lack of community partners the Center has, the CES chose to bring programming there.  The CES planned a multiple once a week after school event for all youth living in that area. The CES marketed with flyers and social media.  The CES then had 4-H leadership games and activities that the college students presented for the youth. The CES incorporated health as a core area to help get the youth moving.  The youth played games from the Spark curriculum such as kickball, stretching, and even introduced them to GAGA Ball.  The CES recruited over 18 college students to help and had about 14 youth participate.  100% of the college students involved said they were thankful to be able to give back to the community.  100% of the youth said this event helped get their minds off stress.  100% of the youth admitted to looking forward to social interaction and could not wait until the next time we do this event.