Join our monthly virtual series tackling the issues that matter most to youth and those who support them.
What is Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities?
"Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities" is Arizona Youth Partnership’s monthly virtual series designed to bring experts, community leaders, and families together to discuss critical issues impacting youth and families in Arizona. From substance misuse and youth mental health to homelessness and healthy relationships, we provide valuable insights and tools to help caregivers and community members empower the next generation.
Each session is free to attend and available live on Facebook.
You can find past broadcasts below for viewing at your convenience.
Join Us for These Monthly Topics
Discover actionable strategies and trending information on these pressing issues
Help Us Strengthen Communities
You can make a difference by supporting Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities. Your sponsorship helps us deliver this vital information to parents, caregivers, and community members across Arizona.
Benefits of Sponsorship
-
Marketing exposure to 6,000+ social media followers and 1,000+ monthly website visitors.
-
Align your brand with a mission-driven initiative focused on creating positive change.
-
Enhance your company’s community commitment.
Sponsorship Levels:
Presenting Sponsor | Gold Sponsor | Silver Sponsor | Bronze Sponsor
Have questions or want to learn more about sponsoring Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities?
We’d love to hear from you!
520-744-9595
Watch Anytime: Past Sessions On Demand
TARGETED: SOCIAL MEDIA & YOUTH -
LANGUAGE, EMOJIS, & APPS
During this discussion, we explored how social media influences youth communication, peer interactions, and potential risks.
A huge thank you to Robert DeVries for sharing valuable insights on how social media influences youth and what parents & caregivers should know. Learn more about Robert’s impactful work at MSTEPP.
💬 Key Topics Covered:
✅ The evolving digital language of youth
✅ Hidden meanings behind emojis & slang
✅ Popular apps and their potential risks
✅ How parents & caregivers can stay informed
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH
This month, in honor of National Nutrition Month, we’re excited to welcome Preston Harris, PhD, RDN, CLT as our featured speaker. Dr. Harris, a leading expert in nutrition and wellness, will discuss the critical role of nutrition in youth development and overall well-being. Learn how balanced diets, healthy eating habits, and proper nutrition impact physical health, cognitive function, and long-term success for young people in our communities.
🔹 Nutrition Trends (foods & social media)
🔹 How can families support healthy eating habits?
🔹 Tips for Youth & Parents/Caregivers
Visit www.dukenutritionexperts.com to learn more about their services.
TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS: HELPING YOUTH ESTABLISH HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
While February’s Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities session isn’t available on video, we’ve created a helpful worksheet with the key topics and practical strategies to support youth in building healthy, respectful relationships.
✅ Download the worksheet here:
ALCOHOL AWARENESS & REDUCING UNDERAGE DRINKING
In this April edition of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities, we’re recognizing Alcohol Awareness Month with an important conversation on Reducing Underaged Drinking.
Our featured speaker, Jessica Valadez, Prevention Specialist with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC) Education and Prevention Unit, shares essential information for youth, parents/caregivers, and community members on preventing underage alcohol use and promoting safer environments.
🧠 Key questions discussed:
🔹 What are the biggest health and safety risks teens face when they drink underage, and how can they protect themselves?
🔹 What signs should parents look for if they suspect their teen might be drinking?
🔹 How can community members report suspicious activity—like adults buying alcohol for teens—without escalating tensions?
📌 Resources shared during the session:
📞 Report underage drinking: 1-877-668-5345 or 602-364-0079
📞 Report complaints (e.g. over-serving, violence at establishments): 602-542-9062
🌐 Learn more: azliquor.gov