By Nancy Stoops

Recently I was invited to attend a meeting of the Walnut Youth Commission.  I was impressed by their goals, and so I asked Doris Li – one of the Youth Commissioners – to help me write an article about them.

The Walnut Youth Commission is made up of 15 students from high schools in and around the City of Walnut. They meet on the second Monday of every month.  Some of the issues that they are trying to deal with are environmental waste and bullying.

As a therapist, I know how detrimental bullying can be. So far this year, they have planned an anti-bullying day and a day that helps students prepare for entering high school.  They act as role models for these students as well as advising them about all of the clubs high schools offer, and act as a support system for this population.  I know how hard the transition between middle school and high school can be, and I am glad the Youth Commission is there to help with this process.

Their main goal is just to improve the already very wonderful community of Walnut, which was highlighted as one of the best cities in America by Money Magazine.  Doris tells me that the Youth Commissioners are proud to be part of this wonderful community.  They feel lucky living in a city and community that provides so much support and so many programs that make it such a great place for family and students to thrive.  I must say I thoroughly agree with Doris and the mindset of the Youth Commissioners, and feel blessed to live in such a wonderful community.

As wonderful as our community is, the Youth Commission and I want to make even better.  I feel I can rest a little easier knowing the youth of this community is getting involved and trying to make it even better.

If you have interest in becoming part of this wonderful commission, please contact the City of Walnut at (909) 595-7543.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, including a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727, or via email at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  Nancy’s books, “Midnight the Therapy Dog,” and “Live, Heal and Grow,” are available at Amazon.com.