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LAKEWOOD – The YWCA of Jamestown will host a free, open-to-the-community programming event with two components.
"Let's Talk About Consent: The Parent Edition ” is scheduled to take place at the YWCA's Lake Lodge, located at 185 E. Terrace Ave., today, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The ‘Parent Edition’ of the YWCA program follows the first segment titled ‘Let's Talk About Consent,’ which took place on Oct. 26 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the YWCA Lake Lodge. This initial session aimed to equip teens and adolescents with the tools and knowledge needed to understand consent.
However, the upcoming program will specifically focus on helping parents and guardians to engage in important conversations about consent with their children – a much-needed skill set, according to some YWCA officials.
"We know that young people need more than information; they need the confidence and skills to communicate their boundaries, recognize the boundaries of others, and build healthy relationships. We also know that parents want to support their children but may not always know how to begin these conversations," said Amanda Gesing, executive director of the YWCA. "By offering these two educational opportunities, we are helping young people and adults build the understanding and communication skills that support safer, healthier relationships throughout our community."
Gesing said the adolescent session of the program helps young people learn what consent means, how to communicate it, how to recognize and respect it in others, and that consent can be withdrawn at any time.
"The parent group will focus on helping parents and caregivers feel more confident having open, age-appropriate conversations with their children about consent, personal boundaries, and healthy relationships. Parents play an important role in helping young people navigate these topics, and having the tools to start these conversations can make a meaningful difference," explained Gesing. "Every young person deserves to understand consent, feel empowered to set boundaries, and know that their voice matters. At the same time, parents deserve support and resources to help them navigate these conversations with their children. By offering these two separate opportunities, we hope to meet people where they are and encourage more open, informed conversations about healthy relationships throughout our community."
According to ywcajamestown.com, YWCA Jamestown's CHAT (Community Health Access to Teens) staff are trained by the state Department of Health and bring expertise in adolescent health education, including healthy relationships, personal boundaries, and sexual health. For more information, visit ywcajamestown.com or call 716-488-2237.