Our recent “Bullying Is Not an Option: Empower Yourself” workshop brought together families, advocates, and community members for an afternoon of meaningful dialogue, creative expression, and empowerment. Educational theorist Dr. Ira Gerald and psychotherapist Mr. Kenald Bernard, LCSW, engaged participants in important conversations surrounding bullying, identity, self-confidence, and personal growth. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their experiences, recognize their strengths, and explore positive ways to navigate life’s challenges.
The workshop also highlighted the role music can play in the empowerment process through the work of our Program and Mental Health Director Emeritus, the late James A. Lacy, LCSW, who used original music he wrote and performed to inspire and uplift others. Participants listened to one of the inspirational songs he wrote and performed: “My Time Has Come” © 2005, the theme song of the Art-Related Cultural Enrichment, My Time Has Come Program™. This was followed by the announcement of the James A. Lacy Memorial Creative Human Service Scholarship Fund, established to support and encourage high school and college students dedicated to service, creativity, and community leadership.
The visual art segment of the workshop engaged children and families in a hands-on creative expression activity. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, thoughtful engagement, and a genuine sense of connection. As a teaching artist and cultural arts educator, it was especially rewarding to facilitate this multigenerational activity focused on the exploration and celebration of individual creative abilities to stave off bullying. Everyone came prepared to participate in a community experience that resonated with them. There were no strangers present; only individuals united by a shared purpose and a true sense of belonging.
Not unlike other programs that Your Time For Creative Empowerment, Inc. offers, this event is an example of what happens when the youth empowerment process goes beyond conversation. Young people need spaces where their voices are also heard through creative expressions. This, we know, can only be effective with the support of compassionate professionals and empathetic community members from all sectors of society. With this in mind, we remain committed to expanding workshops like this one and developing other innovative opportunities for youth and families.
Words of Empowerment
A meaningful aspect of the event is the impact it has on those who participated. Here are just a few reflections shared by attendees following our “Bullying Is Not an Option: Empower Yourself” workshop.
“Attending the anti-bullying workshop was an incredibly rewarding experience for both my family and me. My children left the event feeling empowered, confident, and equipped with priceless skills to recognize, respond to, and prevent bullying. The workshop provided practical strategies they could immediately apply while reinforcing the importance of kindness, empathy, and standing up for themselves and others.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I also found the workshop to be invaluable for my own professional development. I gained effective, evidence-based interventions and fresh approaches that I can incorporate into my work with children, families, and schools. The presenters created an engaging and impactful learning environment that benefited participants of all ages. I am grateful for the opportunity to have attended and highly recommend this workshop to families, educators, and mental health professionals alike.” —Kenald B., LCSW., Resource Person, Participant, Parent
“Harassment and negative talk are divisive and destructive to our communities and people throughout the world. We need to spread positive and constructive conversations and maintain social unity for collaborative and successful community outcomes. Join Madona Cole-Lacy and her organization to influence our communities towards equality, unity, and optimistic behavior for a better world.
The event that featured Dr. Ira Gerald lifted my spirit to continue my pursuit of goals that I was going to abandon. People within my circle were discouraging me, but Dr. Gerald reminded me that I could do all things through God who strengthens me. The hands-on creative expression session facilitated by Mrs. Cole-Lacy, allowed me to express my re-enlightenment that success is still attainable but only if I believe in God and myself. What is also important is that we encircle ourselves with positive people to ultimately make this world a better place.”
— Ian C., DPM., Participant
”The self-empowering workshop on “Bullying is not an option” was very informative. The workshop delivers a vital and actionable message. As a participant, I learnt that bullying reflects the aggressor’s insecurities, which helps shift the power dynamic.
Thanks to Madona Cole-Lacy for her commitment to putting this workshop together for students and adults.”
— Gladys E., Engr., Participant, Volunteer Videographer/Photographer
As I looked around the room, I was reminded that empowerment does indeed begin with meaningful creative connections.
When young people are given the opportunity to express themselves creatively, by caring adults who believe in their potential, remarkable things happen more often than not. This workshop was a powerful reminder of what is possible when communities come together to support youth and families. Your Time For Creative Empowerment, Inc. remains dedicated to creating opportunities for young people to discover their voices, develop their creative talents, and build meaningful connections within their communities as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of life.
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