United Way and the YMCA present “Look Up! Look Around!” – mental health awareness for pre-teens

The United Way of West Central Mississippi TEENS UNITED, in collaboration with the Vicksburg YMCA, is proud to announce their Winter service project of  “Look Up! Look round!” —a
day camp aimed at promoting mental health awareness among pre-teens in the community.

This innovative day camp will take place at the Vicksburg YMCA and offers a unique blend of exciting activities, including rock climbing, archery, basketball, flag football, arts and crafts,  soccer, and dance. The overarching goal of the camp is to create a positive and inclusive environment where pre-teens can engage in both physical and creative pursuits while fostering mental well-being.

Why “Look Up! Look Around!”?

TEENS UNITED recognizes the importance of addressing mental health challenges among pre-teens in today’s digital age. The camp’s theme, “Look Up! Look Around!” serves as a powerful reminder for young individuals to take breaks from their mobile devices, be present in the moment, and connect with their surroundings.

Service Project Focus: Mental Health Advocacy

In addition to the array of engaging activities, TEENS UNITED is incorporating a dedicated mental health awareness component into the camp’s curriculum. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions, watch teen-led skits, and participate in activities that promote open dialogue about mental health and encourage peer support.

Details of “Look Up! Look Around!” Day Camp:

 Date: January 20, 2024
 Time: 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
 Age: 4th -6th Graders
 Location: Purks-Golding Family YMCA, 267 YMCA Place Vicksburg, MS 39180
 Activities: Rock Climbing, Archery, Basketball, Flag Football, Arts & Crafts, Soccer, Dance

“With ‘Look Up! Look Around!’ we really wanted to address a problem in our community that is unique and less vocalized, but just as important. We plan to strive to make the experience enjoyable for all participants and give them a true, honest day of fun and activity that is different from their average Saturday”, said Walker Lambiotte, Co-Chair of TEENS UNITED

Phillip Doiron, Executive Director of Vicksburg YMCA says, “The Vicksburg YMCA is honored to play host to the “Look Up! Look Around!” camp and is excited to work with such a committed group of volunteers from the United Way Teens United group.  Ensuring that kids of all ages continue to make personal connections with others away from electronic devices is critical to their healthy development.  I look forward to seeing the camp in action!”

You Can Get Involved:

Parents, guardians, and community members interested in supporting the “Look Up! Look Around!” day camp or learning more about TEENS UNITED are encouraged to contact United Way or West Central Mississippi at 601-636-1733 or visit www.unitedwayvicksburg.org.