ESSEX COUNTY YOUTH CONFERENCE TODAY

Essex County Prosecutor's Office to Hold Youth Conference for Boys

	Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that the Essex County Prosecutor's Office will hold its first youth conference to address issues of particular significance to teenage males on Friday, March 23, 2012. More than 200 male students from various high schools in Essex County are expected to attend the "From Boys to Men" youth conference. The goal of the one-day summit is to inspire young men to reach their goals and learn about resources available in their communities. This invitation only youth conference will be held at the Essex County Police Academy, located at 250 Grove Avenue in Cedar Grove from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Acting Essex County Prosecutor Murray will give the welcome address. Motivational speaker, Hashim Garrett, will discuss his troubled adolescent years and describe to the audience how he overcame obstacles. A panel discussion will be held to answer the question, "What is a man?" Students will explore the facts of becoming a man verses fiction. The conference will include an interactive segment designed to engage students about the consequences of life situations. It will also include a session about career opportunities. Representatives from various social service agencies will be on hand to provide information to students about resources available. Students will also participate in workshops that focus on Internet Safety, Cyberbullying, Gang Violence and Driver's Education. It is our hope that students will leave this conference with a better understanding of themselves and careers. If you need additional information, please contact Assistant Prosecutor Gwendolyn Williams at 973-621-5381 or Community Justice Coordinator, Nicole Graves-Watson at 973-621-5377.