The 10th annual Moapa Valley Teen Leadership Corps Mental Health Fair was held Feb. 20 at the Clark County Fairgrounds Fine Arts Building and began with remarks from 4-H director Dianna Walker, who thanked the community for supporting the youth who make the event possible.
Walker explained that TLC members meet weekly throughout the year to plan and fundraise for events such as community dances, the Mental Health Awareness 5K and the annual fair. She also announced the upcoming Clover 5K on March 14.
Walker recognized members of the University of Nevada, Reno Extension team, including local educator Carol Bishop and Southern Area director Eric Killian. Through their support, youth in Moapa Valley have access to agricultural programs, robotics clubs, Teen Leadership Corps, aviation club and other leadership opportunities.
Teresa Holzer shares her family’s story of resilience and perseverance at the 10th annual Moapa Valley Teen Leadership Corps Mental Health Fair on Feb. 20.
PHOTO BY JOSHUA LINFORD / The Progress
Although unable to attend, County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick was honored for her continued support of local youth. She was awarded a 4-H belt buckle, one of the highest honors a 4-H member can receive. Judy Metz accepted the award on Kirkpatrick’s behalf and spoke about the impact of TLC.
“These kids were a bright light in this valley,” Metz said, reflecting on the group’s efforts following the COVID-19 pandemic. “They care, they show up, and they do good. So many times, youth go unnoticed, but this group quietly makes a difference.”
State Assemblymember Jason Patchett also addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of community and youth leadership.
“I’m incredibly proud of the youth here,” Patchett said. “You will be the future leaders of this state, your families and your communities.”
TLC President Jace Newsom outlined the group’s mission to promote youth leadership and raise awareness about mental health. He credited community partners, including Clark County Parks & Recreation, MVCEAB, Moapa Valley High School, Mack Lyon Middle School, Moapa Valley Rotary, PACT Coalition, Hope Squad, UNR Extension 4-H and local leaders for making the event possible.
Keynote speaker Teresa J. Holzer shared her experience as the daughter of Holocaust survivors. She told attendees her parents “exhibited great resiliency and perseverance, and they never gave up hope” despite being persecuted during World War II.
Holzer spoke about growing up without extended family and the lasting impact of trauma. She also addressed the importance of understanding history and the meaning of words often used today. She told the youth in attendance that resilience and community support matter, especially during difficult times.
Following the program, volunteers helped serve a Raising Cane’s chicken dinner. Attendees participated in games, including nine square and cornhole. There were also activities such as a raffle for a knife and a fishing pole, and booths where participants collected stickers and learned about mental health resources.
The Teen Leadership Corps will host its annual 4-H 5K Clover Run on Saturday, March 14.