The Southwest Pennsylvania Teen Outreach announced the kickoff meeting for its newly formed HOPE Consortium, set for 4 p.m. on Oct. 21 at the Common Ground Teen Center (92 N. Main Street, Washington). The event is open to all youth‑serving adults and is free to attend.

What is the HOPE framework?

HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) is a strengths‑based, research‑informed approach that highlights how Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) contribute to healthy development and long‑term wellbeing. The framework identifies four Building Blocks of HOPE that focus on key areas of a child’s life—family, school, community, and caring adults—to foster resilience and thriving.

Studies show that PCEs can mitigate the harmful effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which have been linked to poorer physical and mental health outcomes in adulthood.

Key Positive Childhood Experiences

The HOPE model outlines seven specific PCEs that help lower rates of depression, substance use, and long‑term health issues:

• Ability to talk with family about feelings
• Feeling supported by family in difficult times
• Engagement in community activities
• Feeling a sense of belonging in high school
• Feeling supported by friends
• Having at least two non‑parent adults who genuinely care
• Feeling safe and protected by an adult at home

Purpose of the HOPE Consortium

The consortium’s goal is to empower local youth‑serving agencies to prioritize these PCEs, collaborate on initiatives that embed them into everyday life, and ultimately improve long‑term outcomes for Washington’s children. By sharing resources, best practices, and training, the group hopes to create a coordinated community response that strengthens families and builds a more resilient next generation.

Two Teen Outreach staff members, Amy Podgurski‑Gough and Heather Crowe, are certified HOPE Facilitators. Heather Crowe is also in training to become a HOPE Champion, a role that will help lead the consortium’s efforts.

How to get involved

All youth‑serving adults—teachers, counselors, coaches, faith‑based leaders, and nonprofit staff—are welcome to attend. Participation is free, and the meeting will include an overview of the HOPE framework, discussion of local implementation strategies, and networking opportunities.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski at [email protected] or call the Teen Outreach office at 724‑222‑2311.

Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.