"Young people need to feel empowered in their schools and communities. It is not enough to ask them to stay away from drugs and alcohol, we need to show them there are positive things they can do for themselves and others. They must all be leaders in their lives."
That is the main message of Matt Bellace, a youth motivational speaker and stand-up comedian who will address Malvern Prep students at the annual Speak Up! event on Tuesday, January 24, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Duffy Arts Center. Speak Up! is a program that is designed to open conversation about pressing topics between parents, teens and educators. The program promotes a safe, non-threatening environment for individuals to share candidly about relevant issues chosen by a committee of students from participating schools.
Bellace, who holds a PhD in psychology from Drexel University, will address students from Malvern, Notre Dame, Villa Maria Academy and Devon Prep on the issue of Drugs and Alcohol, and will also lead one of several “break out” sessions on Drugs and Alcohol. Other “break out” sessions will cover the topics of Sex & Pressure, Handling Stress, and Understanding Depression. Some Malvern classes are offering extra credit to students who attend.
Bellace is the author of the book "A Better High" (Wyatt Mackenzie, 2012). His "How to Get High Naturally" program encourages over 100,000 students a year to pursue natural highs and make healthy choices. See below for a video of Bellace.
Click
HERE to register for Speak Up!