The upcoming annual “Peace Summit for Youth,” sponsored  by Rotary District 7190, should be of particular attention to all educators and parents of high school students in the Southern Rensselaer County Rotary Club’s service area.

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at the First Reformed Church, 10 North Church Street in Schenectady’s historic Stockade neighborhood just off Union Street.

The summit is open to high school students from throughout the area with the goal of creating an environment in which the youths feel empowered and believe they can become the agents of change — that change is possible, that resources are available, and that just a few voices can create a movement.

Using the “World Cafe Model” and other techniques, the six-hour event will stimulate youths in a thought-provoking interactive manner that keeps them engaged. It will include inspirational participation by Flynn Jeb, a Rotary Peace Scholar who is the regional volunteer services coordinator for the American Red Cross in Massachusetts.

Educators and parents are encouraged to make their high schoolers aware of this opportunity, and to register for it online ASAP because space is limited and the event is open to those in a nine-county area. While there is no charge to participants, there is a cost to Rotary. To help offset that, donations are being solicited from clubs and/or individuals. It costs approximately $50 for each student to attend, so any contribution of $50 or multiples of that amount would be greatly appreciated.

Please make donations payable to the Glens Falls Rotary Foundation, which is helping underwrite the summit, or Rotary District 7190. In either case, please mail your checks to PDG Fred Daniels, 1413 Clifton Park Road, Schenectady, NY 12309.