We welcome youth participation in all areas of congregational life. They help lead and run tech for our worship services, sing in our choir or offer their own musical contributions, and assist in children’s classes and other Faith Development programming. They stand up for justice issues and take a lead in serving the community beyond FUUSB’s walls. 

FUUSB YUUth Group (9th-12th Graders)

YUUth Group at FUUSB is a place for youth to be themselves and be embraced as they are, connecting deeply with other youth from the community. It’s a place for fun and for friendship. A place for asking questions and for being of service. It’s a place for just being together and for growing together. It’s a place for FUUSB youth to call home. 

Even amidst the challenges of navigating the Covid crisis, our YUUth Group was going strong. This is a group that knows how to make the best of the cards were dealt and, most importantly, doing that by supporting each other through these times.

As of March 2022, we were meeting in person, either outdoors, around the campfire or out and about exploring nature’s beauty, OR indoors at the newly ventilated Meeting House with masks. Whether in person or virtually, YUUth Group gathered on Thursday evenings, as well as a couple of Sundays a month (usually for outdoor field trips). Our group started up again last fall and meets on Tuesday evenings. We’d love to see you there!

If you’re new or have questions, feel free to reach out to Rowan Van Ness, Director of Youth & Emerging Adult Ministries, at [email protected].

To register:

Register for Faith Development Here

 

Special Opportunities for Younger Youth

Coming of Age is an opportunity for eighth graders (traditionally, but up to 10th welcome) to find community and connection through active and reflective fun. Coming of Agers are invited to risk showing up authentically, giving and receiving the gift of acceptance, while asking and answering questions that matter to them now, along with some of the deeper life questions that are beginning to capture their curiosity. The program also serves for many as a bridge to the YUUth group. While the program provides opportunity for personal growth and reflection, most report that the main gift is co-creating a community in which they feel a shared sense of belonging. During Covid times we adapted the traditional year-long program for a “Spring Intensive” outdoor educational model. Stay tuned for registration for 2022!

Our Whole Lives (OWL) is a lifespan curriculum for comprehensive sexuality education, and we offer the middle school module every year. Because of its high value and demand, we offer it beyond the membership of First UU. All interested must complete an application process. We plan to gather for OWL for eighth and ninth graders early this fall 2022. Contact Director of Lifespan Faith Development, Erika Reif, at [email protected] for more information.