ALLEN COUNTY'S POSITIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

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ALLEN COUNTY'S POSITIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE •••••

Empowering YOU. For THEM.

  • Mental Health Summit

    The Indiana Mental Health Summit is an annual event that brings together mental health professionals, government leaders, first responders, community organizations, individuals with lived experience, and families to strengthen mental healthcare across Indiana.

    Through inspiring stories, educational sessions, and meaningful collaboration, the Summit raises awareness, reduces stigma, and equips attendees to make a difference in the lives of those facing mental illness and addiction.

  • Conference on Youth

    For more than 35 years, the Great KIDS Make Great COMMUNITIES Conference has brought together educators, youth workers, social service professionals, and community leaders to strengthen children, families, and communities.

    Featuring inspiring keynote speakers, breakout sessions, a Service Provider Fair, networking opportunities, and continuing education credits, the conference equips attendees with practical tools and fresh ideas to make a lasting impact.

  • Leadership Academy

    The Great KIDS Make Great COMMUNITIES Leadership Academy is an invitation-only leadership development program that equips professionals across education, healthcare, social services, public safety, and other community sectors to strengthen their leadership and create lasting impact.

    Through strengths-based learning, self-discovery, and collaborative problem solving, participants develop practical leadership skills while working alongside peers committed to improving outcomes for children, families, and communities. Graduates also complete a community-focused capstone project and earn a Continuing Education Certificate from Purdue University Fort Wayne.

  • Training Series

    The Great KIDS Make Great COMMUNITIES Training Series provides educational opportunities throughout the year to help professionals strengthen their knowledge, skills, and impact. Led by experienced presenters, these trainings offer practical strategies and evidence-based practices to better serve children, families, and communities.

  • Building Assets

    The 40 Developmental Assets form the foundation for programs offered by Great KIDS. Established by Search Institute in 1990, this framework identifies essential components for youth development and remains one of the most widely cited in the world.