OCALA,Fla.-The teen and preteen years can be challenging for youths and adults alike. Add the idleness of summer into the mix, and there are ample opportunities for teens and preteens to make poor decisions.

"Data has shown that risky decision-making increases during the summer months. This has been linked to the amount of time teenagers have with nothing to do and with having less supervision," said Florida Department of Health in Marion County Health Education Program Manager, Tracey Sapp. "Summer is just starting, and we hope to get youth to think a little before making decisions that could affect any of their future goals."

The BRAZEN Sexual Risk Avoidance program seeks to help middle and high school students navigate the dangers these years can present and build awareness, character and self-confidence to safeguard against challenges. The BRAZEN program is hosting its annual Youth Rally on June 22 and a special workshop for parents and adults on June 20 to empower teens and preteens to make positive decisions.

- "Teen Brain - Under Construction" Parent/Adult Workshop and Dinner will be held June 20, 2017, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Medical Health Center Conference Room (1714 SW 17th St., Ocala). Award-winning, national speaker Julie-Marie Carrier will give a presentation. Admission and food is free. Attendees have a chance to win a $100 Publix gift card. Due to adult content, no children should attend.

- BRAZEN Youth Rally for youth ages 11 to 18 will be held June 22, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the E.D. Croskey Center (1510 NW Fourth St., Ocala). Admission, food and all activities and games are free. Attendees have a chance to win a drone in addition to other prizes.

BRAZEN encourages any adults who work with teens and preteens to come to the parent/adult workshop and dinner. Suggested attendees include teachers, mentors, youth group leaders, grandparents and foster parents. The interactive presentation will provide greater clarity on the complexity of teen behavior and the impact of adolescent choices on brain development. Participants will also learn current findings on how to positively mold the adolescent brain to help teens become healthy, happy, productive adults.

For more information on either event, please call 352-629-0137, ext. 2284.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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