MARSHALL, Ill. – All youth should feel a sense of purpose, joy, and direction in their lives. Sometimes though, it may seem like some aren't as engaged as they could be. Illinois 4-H knows the importance of thriving and is offering four online workshops for all youth ages twelve and older to discover, connect, and learn ways to flourish in their everyday lives.

Led by 4-H Youth Development Educator Susan Sloop, the Strive to Thrive Youth Workshop Series is free and will be on April 18, 25, May 2, and 9 from 4:30-5 p.m. Topics will include the use of deep breathing for stress relief, understanding resiliency, dealing with disappointment, and coping with loss.

"The sessions are short but meaningful," says Sloop. "We want to be respectful of everyone's time, and these 30-minute workshops do that while still having time to connect with youth."

After the initial four-session series, Sloop says she plans to offer once-a-month sessions to dive deeper into seven specific areas of thriving youth.

To register for one or all workshops, visit online at go.illinois.edu/strive or call the Clark County Extension Office at 217-826-5422. You will receive a link to the online sessions once you register. If you need reasonable accommodation to participate, email Susan Sloop. Early requests are encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.

WRITER: Darra Walker