“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”
Dr. Seuss
news
COVID-19
All AOK staff and youth attending AOK After School and Nathan’s Place will be required to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible. For questions please contact Jerod, Zach, or Kelsi at one of the buildings.
Announcement
Parents: To avoid waiting out in the cold for pick up, you may call or text 417.681.0559 and we will do our best to have your child ready when you arrive.
Both locations will be open March 15-19 during Spring Break. The Wolf Building will be open 7:30am–5:30pm. Nathan’s Place will be open 10:00am–5:30pm, as always, Nathan's Place youth will not be at the Wolf Building.
Mark your calendars, open your wallets, and bust out the cleats. Saturday, June 12, AOK will be hosting adult flag football tournament, Kansas City Chiefs memorabilia auction, and performance painter Mike Debus. More details to come.
Drug-Free Message of the Week
Throughout the nation, 10 million young people (ages 12-29) are in need of substance misuse treatment. Among the millions, only 1 in 10 adolescents who have a substance use disorder actually receive the professional treatment they deserve. Some of the most commonly abused drugs are marijuana, cocaine, crack, opioids (including heroin), LSD, ecstasy, and methamphetamine. Research shows shocking statistics in teen substance abuse, emphasizing the prominence of drugs in America’s youth.
Among youth, the top three substances are alcohol, marijuana, and vaping products like e-cigarettes. Although opioids are a significant issue among younger individuals, and are driving the epidemic, research shows that teenage opioid use is relatively low. However, all adolescents, teens, and young adults who use drugs are at risk for substance abuse problems. In fact, 9 out of 10 individuals who abuse nicotine, alcohol or other drugs began using these substances before the age of 18. People who began using addictive substances before age 15 are 7 times more likely to develop a substance problem than those who first use after age 21. Every year that substance use is delayed during the period of adolescent brain development, the risk of addiction and substance abuse decreases.
If you, a loved one, or someone you know needs information or treatment in a confidential, safe, judgment-free atmosphere, please contact AOK directly by calling or texting 417.682.6002 or visit aokyouth.org/rcc-project.
Follow this newsletter to learn more about this crisis and how it can affect those around you.
SPECIAL EVENTS
March 8
Monday
RCC Meeting
Rural Counties Coalition (RCC) will meet Monday March 8. Come meet in person or join us via zoom, networking at 5:00 and meeting at 5:30. Meeting will be held at AOK's Corporate office.
March 11
Thursday
Valentine's Dance
Nathan's Place • 6–8pm
All youth grades 6-8 may attend.
THE WOLF BUILDING
Xnay
A lot of energy; overly energetic.
Xocolatl
Each building will participate in an activity that involves the sampling of Xocolatl, along with an educational piece.
NATHAN’S PLACE
Valentine’s Dance
The Valentine’s Dance has been rescheduled for this Thursday. Come join us! Youth from grades 6–8 are welcome.
Awareness
Inhalants are gases or fumes from everyday products that are inhaled or sniffed to cause an immediate high. They also can kill instantly. Inhalants cut off oxygen to the brain and can damage your ability to think clearly, cause you to become clumsy and harm your eyesight. Some of this damage can be permanent. Immediate heart failure and death, known as “sudden sniffing death,” happens when the heart stops pumping blood. Inhalant users also can die by suffocating, choking on their vomit, or experiencing a seizure. Using inhalants from a paper or plastic bag or in a closed area greatly increases the chances of suffocation and death.
How can you tell if a friend is using inhalants? Sometimes it’s tough to tell.
Symptoms of inhalant use may include:
- Slurred speech
- Drunk, dizzy, or dazed appearance
- Unusual breath odor
- Chemical smell on clothing
- Paint stains on body or face
- Red eyes
- Runny nose
What can you do to help someone who is using inhalants? Encourage your friend to stop using or seek help from a parent, teacher, or other caring adult.
For more information, check out this week’s new reading material: Mind Matters: Inhalants.
Food of the Month
Peanuts
Peanuts are a convenient source of protein and come with the added bonus of healthful nutrients, such as antioxidants, iron, magnesium, and fiber. The majority of fats in peanuts are heart-healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.
This week, the VolunTeens will be making Peanut Butter Banana Smoothies. Smoothies are an easy breakfast and full of nutrients.
Try the recipe for yourself here.
Zach Morey
Programs Director
ABOUT OUR KIDS, INC.