Operation Snowball is one of the oldest prevention traditions in Illinois. Chapters sprouted up beginning in the 1980s as a way to bring together youth and adults to build healthier communities. At that time, there was a growing recognition that positive youth development with programs like Snowball translated to better decision-making, particularly specific to substance use. As we well know, mental health and resilience were not widely discussed. Snowball now encompasses a broader lens, encouraging healthy decision-making and well-being.
District 128's Snowball chapter has been running for over 40 years. For the past 20+ years, it has taken place at YMCA Camp MacLean in Burlington, Wisconsin. Student participants enjoy a day in this beautiful camp setting where they spend the day engaging in a variety of fun and meaningful activities designed to build leadership and greater awareness about healthy living. Snowball is a highly social day. Students spend the day in a small group consisting of Libertyville and Vernon Hills High School students. Between a top-shelf speaker, outdoor team building, workshop rotations, and small group cabin time, we want students to return home with both a new outlook as well as new friends.
We are especially excited about our speaker this year, Dr. Matt Bellace. Matt is a comedian with a PhD in clinical neuropsychology. He is one of the best speakers I've heard over the years, particularly with high school students. His message focuses on cultivating resilience using a variety of funny and interactive presentation tools. He will be flying in from his home in Princeton, New Jersey. See more about Matt here.
To register for Snowball, click on this link. The cost is $50 per person. Students load the bus at 7:15 AM and return by 6:00 PM. Registration deadline has been extended to Friday, February 21.
For more information, please contact Dr. Brenda Nelson, Prevention & Wellness Program Coordinator - brenda.nelson@d128.org.
