Post submitted by James K. Rector, HRC Arkansas Field Organizer

Rise. Energize. Ignite. These were the themes of HRC Arkansas’ first youth summit on Feb. 3. More than 40 youth from diverse backgrounds, many from rural cities in the Natural State, came together to learn organizing skills at the First United Methodist Church in downtown Little Rock .

The summit’s goal was to teach community organizing skills to middle school and high school students from across the state. Workshops were peer-led, and space was provided for students to brainstorm projects to complete in their schools and communities during the upcoming semester. After the summit, students will have access to mentors to help guide them through their projects before having the opportunity to showcase their work in the Spring.

Planned Parenthood, Arkansas United Community Coalition, Teach for America, the Arkansas Transgender Equality Coalition, the Center for Artistic Revolution (including students from its youth program), Diverse Youth for Social Change, Just Communities of Arkansas, the Gay and Lesbian Education Support Network, PFLAG, Arkansas Foster Care Alumni Association, Pride Corps, the University of Central Arkansas, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Lucie’s Place, the GSA Network, area GSA advisors, counselors, teachers and students from the Clinton School of Public Service helped organize and lead the conference.

If you are interested in getting involved in HRC’s youth outreach and education and joining the fight for full equality in the Natural State, text ARKANSAS to 30644 and email James K. Rector, HRC Arkansas Field Organizer, at james.rector@hrc.org for more information.