Gathering at the Mandel Public Library in West Palm Beach, Florida, 74 students from 10 different Palm Beach County high schools converged for a transformative experience at the Safety 4 Life Student Ambassador Retreat.
Event Highlights:
Expert Presentations and Future Leaders
The retreat provided a platform for students to delve into the four elements linked to the highest causes of death and serious injury to teens. Through impactful presentations, attendees were energized and empowered to make positive changes in their communities. Present and future ambassadors were praised for their dedication to learning and for their commitment to becoming future leaders in safety advocacy.
Support and Resources
At the retreat, students were provided with shirts, food, educational materials, and information for an interactive and enriching experience. The support of Mary’s Giving Fund made it possible to offer these resources and create an environment where students could learn, connect, and grow.
Creating Safer Communities
The Safety 4 Life Foundation believes that by providing teens with the necessary tools and information, we can remove some of the risk factors and create safer communities for all. Enacting positive change through preventative measures is our goal, and we are committed to equipping young people with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive and stay safe.
City of West Palm Beach Student Ambassador Day Proclamation
During the Safety 4 Life Student Ambassador Retreat, attendees had the honor of receiving a proclamation from the City of West Palm Beach declaring it as Student Ambassador Day. This proclamation recognized the dedication and commitment of the students to promoting safety and well-being in their communities. It served as a testament to the impactful work being done by these young leaders and highlighted the importance of their contributions to creating safer neighborhoods and fostering positive change. The proclamation reaffirmed the city’s support for the Safety 4 Life initiative and its mission to empower youth and build safer communities for all.
Speakers:
Detective Mario Holgiun – Shedding Light on Human Trafficking: In a riveting presentation, Detective Mario Holgiun from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) discussed the dangers of human trafficking and provided invaluable insights into preventive measures to combat this pervasive issue.
Eric Stern – Navigating the Roads Safely: Eric Stern, the Physical, Health & Driver Education Administrator of the School District of Palm Beach County, shared his expertise on the issues that most new drivers need to pay attention to, equipping attendees with practical tips for safe driving.
Alex Oliveira – Navigating Internet Safety: Alex Oliveira delivered a compelling presentation on internet safety, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant in an increasingly digital world. With his expertise and insights, attendees gained valuable knowledge on navigating online risks and protecting themselves from cyber threats.
Hayden Tryansky – A Personal Journey of Consequence: Hayden Tryansky shared his raw and candid experience of making a fateful decision to speed, resulting in devastating consequences. His powerful account served as a sobering reminder of the real-life implications of reckless driving.
Sgt. Scott Yoder – Ensuring Safe Law Enforcement Interactions: Sgt. Scott Yoder of the PBSO provided valuable insights into ensuring safe interactions with law enforcement, offering guidance on the do’s and don’ts during traffic stops and beyond.
Elijah Virgin & Jeff Delavore – Trauma Prevention Strategies: Elijah Virgin from St. Mary’s Medical Center and Jeff Delavore from Delray Medical Center shared their expertise on trauma prevention and provided insights into the critical work they do in the trauma departments.
John Bolen – Testing Safety Knowledge with Driver Education Jeopardy: John Bolen from Treasure Coast Driving School engaged attendees with rounds of Driver Education Jeopardy, testing their safety knowledge in a fun and interactive manner.
Student Ambassador Engagement
Senior student ambassadors took the floor to encourage new ambassadors to become more involved and provided guidance on starting a Safety 4 Life Student Ambassador Club at schools without one established.
Peer-to-Peer Education
Following the retreat, students will utilize the Safety 4 Life P2P (peer-to-peer) educational system to share their experiences and knowledge with their peers. This powerful approach to education allows students to actively engage in changing behaviors and promoting safety among their peers.
Our Supporters
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mary’s Memorial Giving Fund for their generous support and unwavering commitment to our cause. Their dedication has played a pivotal role in making the Safety 4 Life Student Ambassador Retreat possible, empowering students with essential knowledge and resources to prevent teen tragedies. Additionally, we would like to express our deepest appreciation to our founders, Brian and Esther LaBovick, for their continued support and tireless efforts in advancing our mission. Their passion and vision have been instrumental in shaping our organization and driving positive change in our communities. Together with our sponsors and supporters, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, creating safer and brighter futures for all.
In summary, the Safety 4 Life Student Ambassador Retreat was a resounding success, equipping attendees with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to make a positive impact in their communities.
About Safety 4 Life
Safety 4 Life is dedicated to promoting safety and well-being in communities across the globe. Through educational programs, interactive workshops, and community outreach initiatives, we empower individuals of all ages to make informed decisions and prioritize safety in every aspect of life. Join us in our mission to create a culture of safety and well-being for all.