The FORT
©
Where Teens can Unwind, Connect, Belong and Thrive
Sunday, April 21, 1:00 - 4:30 PM
Sterling Community Center,120 Enterprise St, Sterling, VA 20164
Online registration closes at 5pm on Saturday. Walk-ins accepted on Sunday.
Sunday, May 5, 1:00 - 4:30 PM
Crossroads, 43454 Crossroads Dr, Ashburn, VA
Online registration closes at 5pm on Saturday. Walk-ins accepted on Sunday.
The FORT experience
Time: 1:00 - 3:45 PM
The FORT is a safe, healing, community space for young people in middle and high school to find connection, make friends, be themselves without pressure, and participate in fun, experiential workshops and activities that help them deal with the stresses of everyday life.
In addition to games, brief group discussions and free activity time, all participants will engage in two workshops that vary each time they attend the FORT, exploring expressive arts, mindfulness, nature or animal assisted therapy, and movement/physical activity.
All workshops are designed specifically to focus on building resilience through positive messaging and holistic experiences that allow participants to learn new tools and strategies that can be used in moments of heightened anxiety, stress or sadness.
The FORT Teen Hangout
Time: 3:45 - 4:30 PM
The Hangout after the FORT workshops is an optional time for teens to continue connecting with their peers, and engage in conversation on topics that matter to them, OR to finish working on their activities after the main FORT.
All Hangout conversation is moderated by a mental health professional who can provide additional emotional support, and therapy dogs are often present for additional comfort and cuddles.
Teens who don't want to stay for the Hangout can be picked up at 3:45pm.
April 21st workshops:
Healthy Living through Motion
Dive into the dynamic world of our Teen Movement Workshop, a specially curated program designed to inspire and engage teenagers in a healthy physical activity. In today's digital age, where screens often capture our attention, this workshop serves as a vibrant reminder of the joy and necessity of movement for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
From Ordinary to Awesome: Turning found objects into Art
Join us for a unique workshop, designed to explore our imagination, innovation and creativity as we transform ordinary, everyday objects into something new. Participants are encouraged to bring an item from home or select one from our curated collection of thrift store finds (examples include: a t-shirt, lamp, DVDs, Keys, broken electronics). These items, which may seem mundane at first glance, will serve as the canvas for your imagination, representing how in life we can adapt and celebrate change, as new opportunities occur.
May 5th workshops:
Mirror Poems
Use your insight, writing skills and creativity to make your very own SELF-REFLECTION MIRROR! This project was created by a student (like you!) who knows the ups and downs of being a teenager. In the class, you will watch a short video, write an inspiring REVERSE POEM, and put it on a mirror adding your own style and creativity. After you are done, you will have a 4-foot mirror to take home and remind you of how amazing you are. I hope you can join me!
Getting Strong, Inside Out
Uncover your inner strength, boost energy and mental health using fun, circuit training with your group. Whatever your level, you’ll explore a variety of safe exercises using equipment like dumbbells and giant fitness balls. This session will help connect fun, physical activity with strengthening body, mind, and mental well-being. Plus, you can take home your giant fitness ball after the FORT!
