Youth Lead the Way at Voices for Safety Town Hall

Club teens tackle school safety—and inspire a community to take action

At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, we know something important: Tennessee needs Club kids. Club kids need you.

Our Voices for Safety Town Hall brought that truth to life. Led by our incredible teen members, this youth-led event put the spotlight on real issues, real experiences, and real solutions to make schools safer for everyone.

The event was the result of a year-long project called PAEKIPS—Protecting and Educating Kids in Public Safety. Through this work, our youth explored what safety means to them, what challenges they see in their schools, and how we can come together as a community to create change.

Teens Talk. Adults Listen. Change Begins.

Our Club teens kicked off the evening with a powerful presentation that included personal stories, research, and recommendations for better school safety. They focused on key issues like mental health, bullying prevention, emergency response, and building positive relationships with public safety professionals.

Then, the conversation continued with a panel discussion featuring youth leaders, elected officials, and public safety experts. Together, they tackled tough topics and listened closely to the solutions our teens brought forward. It was a strong reminder that when youth are invited to the table, they lead with heart, honesty, and hope.

Hands-On Learning, Youth-Led

After the panel, guests explored interactive stations—each one designed and created by our Club teens. These stations helped guests see through the eyes of young people: how it feels to be safe, what support looks like, and where change is needed most. From mental wellness to school drills, every station invited learning, conversation, and action.

The Message Is Clear: Club Kids Are Leading

Events like Voices for Safety prove what we say every day: We change lives and can prove it.

Our teens didn’t wait for someone else to make a difference. They took the lead, and they invited our community to stand with them. Because when young people have a voice, and when adults choose to listen—real change happens.

At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, we’re proud of every Club member who helped bring this event to life. Their leadership is exactly what Tennessee needs right now—and with your support, they’ll keep building a safer, stronger future for us all.

Tennessee needs Club kids. Club kids need you.