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3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
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Youth United: 84 Movement, Youth-Led Podcast, Next Wave-Peer Mentorship, and More!!! - The 84 Movement (Youth United Edition)
Youth United is our big, vibrant umbrella program that brings young people together to grow, create, lead, and connect with their community. It’s a collection of youth-driven opportunities that give kids and teens space to express themselves, explore their interests, and build real skills with support from caring adults.Youth United includes several individual programs. Participants can join one, or mix and match the experiences that fit them best.
Members of Youth United will participate in various leadership/mentor programs, as well as exclusive field trips, special events, and serve as ambassadors representing the City of New BedfordYouth United requires an application; however, membership is free. *STIPENDS available for certain programs!**(Participation/attendance requirements must be met to receive stipends, not all programs include stipends)**FALL 2026 Programs!!
Next Wave Mentor Program
Next Wave is our mentorship pathway for youth and adults who want to make a positive impact in their community. Young participants learn from teen and adult mentors, teens mentor younger peers while being guided by adults, and adult mentors anchor the whole experience. Everyone grows, everyone leads, everyone lifts each other up.Through creative, environmental, and community-based programs; such as the Art Garden at the Ricketson Nature Center, Next Wave participants build leadership skills, confidence, and a strong sense of responsibility to their peers and shared spaces.
Middle School & High School Participants
Middle and high school youth in the Next Wave program take on meaningful leadership roles while continuing to learn and grow themselves. Participants support younger peers, assist with program activities, and contribute to creative and environmental projects, all while being guided by adult mentors and Recreation staff. This experience helps teens build communication skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of leadership, responsibility, and community impact.
Adult Mentors – Next Wave
Adult Mentors play a vital role in the Next Wave pathway by providing guidance, encouragement, and consistency across programs. Mentors support youth and teen leaders as they engage in creative, environmental, and community-based activities, helping to model positive leadership and collaboration in a supportive, inclusive environment.Adults interested in becoming a mentor are invited to apply through a brief application process, which includes a CORI/SORI & fingerprint background check. No prior mentoring or teaching experience is required, just a genuine interest in supporting young people, showing up consistently, and being part of a community that believes in shared growth and leadership.----------------------------------------------------------
The 84 Movement (Youth United Edition)
As part of Massachusetts’ State-Wide 84 Movement, our chapter empowers youth to take action around public health, community wellness, and advocacy. Participants work on creative projects, campaigns, and leadership opportunities that challenge the influence of the tobacco and vaping industries. It is activism, youth voice, and positive change all rolled into one.------------------------------------------------------------
Art in Bloom-Art Garden at Ricketson Nature Center(COMING LATER THIS FALL)Days and times TBA
Ages 8–14The Art Garden Youth Program invites young people ages 8–14 to take an active role in growing, creating, and caring for the Art Garden at the Ricketson Nature Center. Through hands-on gardening, creative art activities, and collaborative projects, participants will help maintain the garden while exploring the connections between nature, art, and community.Youth will work alongside Recreation staff and local artists to plant, tend, and harvest, while also contributing to visual elements and creative expressions within the garden space. This program encourages environmental stewardship, teamwork, and creative confidence, offering a meaningful way for youth to learn, lead, and leave their mark on a shared community space.------------------------------------------------------------
For more information on The Next Wave/Youth United, please reach out directly to: Tj Thomas508-961-3015 xt 67444Isidro.Thomas@newbedford-ma.gov
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A. McCoy Rec Center (AMRC) - Arts & Crafts Room
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