4-H Bully Prevention Summit - Oct. 17

Bullying is an issue that runs prevalent among today’s youth, impacting them like never before. The Center for 4-H and Youth Development of the College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences of the University of the District of Columbia has launched a campaign to bring more attention to the issue. On October 17, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., UDC will host the 2014 4-H Bully Prevention Summit on Dennard Plaza, featuring a program full of youth-oriented events.

As defined by the U.S. government, bullying is: “Unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time.” The behavior may include making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and exclusion.

Partnering with ArtLife, Inc. the Center for 4-H and Youth Development will embark on a national campaign that includes the youth in sending the message across the country that being a bully is a very bad choice. At the heart of the campaign is the “These Bullies Can’t Hold Me Back” shirt.

The bully prevention launch event will begin a series of activities that will engage D.C. youth in finding better ways to communicate and support each other. Participants will attend breakout sessions where they will have the opportunity to share their stories and discuss mitigation techniques addressing bullying behavior, enjoy health and wellness activities, and skits. Sports Zone Elite will also be on hand, hosting a fashion show.

CAUSES is committed to building strong, vibrant communities of active and engaged citizens. The Center for 4-H and Youth Development develops innovative programs that emphasize experiential learning opportunities for young people and their families. Through "hands-on" interactive programming, participants develop life skills, leadership abilities, and an ethic of civic stewardship. The center offers the following programming to support and engage District youth.

For more information, contact Mrs. Rebecca Bankhead at rbankhead@udc.edu or (202) 274-7081. Visit www.udc.edu/4h to learn more about the District’s 4-H program. For additional resources on bullying, visit http://www.stopbullying.gov/.