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We’re excited to share the latest updates, stories, and opportunities happening at BBAY. Each quarter, we highlight the incredible work happening in our community and keep you in the loop on how we’re building a more connected and supportive Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park for young people.
Advocacy in Action: Days at the Capitol
This quarter, Reimagine and Youth OnBoard students showed up and showed out at the Minnesota State Capitol -- twice!
In February, we joined the YMCA's Youth Day at the Capitol where youth had the opportunity to learn advocacy skills, explore the MN History Museum, and march to the Capitol. Students were able to meet with elected officials to share about the issues that mattered most to them.
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This momentum continued into March when Reimagine, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education & Marnita's Table, hosted their very own Black Youth Mental Health Day at the Capitol. This event was centered on celebrating and uplifting youth voices and policy priorities to address Black youth suicide and mental health. The day began at the Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center with games and workshops, then transitioned to a powerful rally at the Capitol where youth chanted, sang, shared stories, and met with elected officials. Over 120 participants stood together to declare: Keep Black Youth Safe at All Times. One youth reflected, “I walked away feeling heard, but more so that some change might happen.”
Stay connected to Reimagine by subscribing to their newsletter here and follow Reimagine on Instagram.
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 Welcome to the team, Crixell!
In March, BBAY welcomed Crixell Shell as the Youth and Community Engagement Initiative Coordinator (YCEIC) to support the Elevate Youth! programming. Crixell brings expertise in peace building, restorative practices, resilience, training, trauma-informed systems & conflict resolution. We are excited for her to bring her leadership to our Community Engagement Team and other initiatives BBAY manages over time as we engage adults to respond to the needs of youth.
Programming Updates:
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Affinity Groups. At Park Center High School, both Latinx and Black affinity spaces have launched with youth facilitators being hired to lead spaces which reflect their identities and interests.
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Culturally Responsive Tutoring (CRT). Over 300 students have been served in tutoring at Brooklyn Center High School and Cooper High School. Youth are supported by both peer and adult tutors, and they are encouraged to cultivate the space to meet their needs and encourage academic success. BBAY has seen many returning students utilize this space, and even invite their peers to join. As we begin planning for the 2025-2026 academic year, BBAY is exploring expansion of the CRT model in partner sites.
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Youth OnBoard (YOB). Members of Youth OnBoard have been applying for positions on decision-making tables. Recently, Keesha Ramirez, a Park Center student, accepted a position as a youth liaison to the Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission. Students from Champlin Park High School have also been engaged with the Anoka Hennepin Community Education Advisory Council. On the horizon, YOB is planning an end-of-year celebration to showcase student leadership across sites.
Looking Ahead: Summer 2025!
 This summer, Elevate Youth! is launching a dynamic 6-week series designed to reflect what students truly want and need. Programming will include digital storytelling with CCX Media, where youth can explore video and podcast production; wellness and mindfulness workshops led by the BC Wellness Center; and outdoor adventures in partnership with Three Rivers Park District. Additional weeks will focus on improv and leadership development, civic engagement with guest speakers, and high-energy sports challenges to foster teamwork and fun.
Stay tuned for registration details.
Met Council Community Climate Collaboration
Youth members from both BYC and Youth Onboard are partnering with the Metropolitan Council to amplify youth voice in the regional Comprehensive Climate Action Plan: Imagine 2050. The first two sessions focused on exploring regional climate data and interview training. In upcoming sessions, participants will analyze community feedback and share results. Participants have expressed their excitement about integrating voices from the Brooklyns into this project and emphasized the importance of environmental advocacy.
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Bridging the Gap: Two Generations. One Conversation.
The Brooklyns Youth Council (BYC) has also been hard at work planning their spring service learning project: Bridging the Gap. This project came to light when BYC members expressed how they felt there is disconnect between young people and adults on crucial topics including: Mental Health, Positive Youth/Adult Relationships, Education & Skill-Building, and Identity & Inclusion.
BYC members will be inviting peers & adults in the ecosystem to this event to build relationships with one another and hold space for important conversations on the identified topics.
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Community Advisory Group: Recruiting Now!
The Cities of Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center, in partnership with the Brooklyn Bridge Alliance for Youth is seeking community members to join an Advisory Team that will help review the impacts of Recreation and Parks Departments. View the flyers below for more details!
Brooklyn Park Residents:
 Brooklyn Center Residents:
Stay Connected with BBAY:
College and Career Pathways Newsletter
Brooklyns Connect (FREE activities and events) Newsletter
RBYMH Newsletter
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