Youth
VanU deeply values our youth. Teens need their own space to explore, to build relationships, and to understand the world we’re in. Youth programs are a place to do all that and more, with your fellow youth as well as supportive adult Youth Advisors. These programs range in age from 13 to 18 (Grade 8 to Grade 12).
Community, Covenant, and Care
Programs for youth are designed and coordinated by our Lifespan Faith Team with our member volunteers. We invite teens to lead on content and projects. They’re great at it! VanU supports them by providing a space to learn how to care for each other in community.
Kiersten Moore - she/her/they
Director of Lifespan Faith Development
Alex Okrainetz - she/her
Children and Youth Program CoordinatorThe three Cs: our most important tools in creating safe and exciting spaces for youth. Building communities of peers and adults, living our covenants of how we want to treat each other, and caring for us and our world.
Don’t know what covenant means? Here it is in 15 seconds or less: Unitarian Universalism is a covenantal religion, which means that we hold our promises to each other – about how we act, how we speak, and how we treat each other – as our most holy and sacred gift. More questions? Talk to Olivia, Kiersten, or Rev. Shawn!
Youth
Coming of Age is a core program for UU kids as they become youth. Monthly mentorship meetings with elders and peers, (12-13 year olds).
Youth Group is always working on a different project, always a fun time. Sundays 1-3 p.m., for high school students (13-18 year-old).
Youth conferences are a huge part of the UU youth experience – for fun, learning, connection, and spirituality.
A small group for our oldest youth, gathering to support them in a time of transition in their lives, (finishing high school or just graduated, 17-19 year olds).
