Feeling connected to others means youths less likely to engage in risky behaviors
Social scientists refer to our connections with others as "social integration," a powerful factor in

determining our well-being. Being a valued member of a family, school, religion or community is the key to feeling worthy. Youth who feel connected engage in fewer risk behaviors such as substance use and violence and do better in school because they know that people care about them.

Because it is so important to be connected, we took to the streets once again in search of some advice from people who are connected.

Jackie, age 13: "Student Council at Nardin Academy helps me feel connected to my school. I enjoy having a say in some things that happen in my school, which is the place I spend most of my time. I know that I am valued because none of my ideas are ever put down. Through Student Council, I have formed strong, healthy relationships with other Student Council members."

Jacob, age 13: "School is one thing I just love. Not just because I'm seeing my friends, and making new ones, but I have time to do things I like such as school sports. I'm in cross-country, swimming and lacrosse."

Emily, age 14: "At Sweet Home High School, I can definitely tell that I am valued. This year we started meeting in homeroom every month to respond to whether the school needs any improvements. We have talked about safety in the school and whether the school should be doing more to help us. Many people give their input on recent issues in the school and it helps us feel valued."

Ashley, age 15: "What helps me feel connected to my school is that I know there are people I can go to for help. Teachers are always offering extra help if needed, and guidance counselors are there if you have any questions. I also know that I can go to my friends if I have anything on my mind. All of these people make me feel connected and comfortable in my school."

Lindsay, age 15: "I go to Sweet Home High School and feel very connected to my school because I know my teachers are always there for me. Whether I do not understand what is being taught, or have a question, my teachers will do whatever they can to help me learn. I can also go to just about any one of my teachers if I have a problem. They are always there with open minds to help me the best that they can."

Cadie, age 15: "I am part of a girls swim team at my school, and being on the team helps me feel connected. We all work together to achieve a common goal, and we need to work together in certain events in order to be successful. It makes me feel valued because in a relay everyone on the team needs you, not only to swim, but to do good."

Leanne, age 15: "As a young person, I feel connected to my sports team.We work together easily, and it makes it easy for me to want to play, not only for the sport, but also for the other kids that play it as well. I know that I am valued, and cared about, because at times our team hangs out together on the weekend. Everyone is included, and we do not count kids out."

Steve, age 17: "My friends help me feel connected in the AFS International Club. I know I am valued because I was voted in as vice president for the club this year. We try to help each other if any of us is having a problem and often give each other advice."

Caroline B., Williamsville CSD: "The opportunity to develop positive relationships with individuals and being empowered to make a difference in the community."

Peggy R., parent: "Connectedness ... After finding an aspect of the organization that tickles your fancy ... become "actively" involved in assisting to attain their goals. One will meet others with the same interests, and new bonds of friendship and connectedness will form. It's a very energizing feeling and lowers stress levels."

Marcia B., parent: "Connectedness" includes the heart, mind and body. Passion/strong interest drives the mind to make those important "connections" allowing one to reach out to members sharing the same types of goals. Alone, we are just one "body" but together in an atmosphere which welcomes ideas, accepts changes and allows personal growth we are able to model a community, whether it is in a church, school, workplace, etc. The key to connectedness is the realization that together we can make a difference."

Pat T., parent: "When my children were in school, participation in the school's PTA/PTSA helped me feel a part of the school community. One has a sense of doing something for the common good."

Patti C., Williamsville CSD: "I can vividly recall those teachers and support staff that had a powerful impact upon me as a student. These are the individuals who greeted me by name whenever they saw me and consistently asked how I was doing. They took the time to know what was important to me or what I was involved in. I remember feeling connected to my school because I felt the adults in it were interested in my life, my well-being ... they were able to convey a strong message of belonging through the simple act of listening."

Send topic ideas to the Amherst Task Force, 4255 Harlem Road, Amherst, N.Y. 14226 or e-mail Sally@ eccpasa.info.