In today’s world young people are spending more time online and using mobile devices than ever before, sharing information and connecting through activities like social networking. With 95 percent off all teens online and 80 percent users of social media sites comes an increased need to teach youth how to safely navigate an expansive and complex digital world.
Thanks to a $1,500 grant from Sprint, the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress was able to provide three full weeks of Internet safety activities to over 250 youth in June. Topics included online safety, cyber bullying, online gaming and safeguarding personal information.
The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress concluded its Internet Safety Month with activities and a special presentation from Cypress Police Officer Julie Marquez to educate kids and families in the community on ways to use media safely. During the presentation, Marquez focused on social media and the importance of making smart, safe decisions on what a person posts on the Internet. She also discussed potential dangers while online and gave youth and parents steps to take to combat potentially unsafe activity.
“With young people using the Internet as a primary way to interact with their peers, it is more important than ever to make sure they are making smart decisions to stay safe,” said Executive Director Anne Hertz. “Internet Safety Month is the perfect time to remind youth and parents that while technology can be a fun way to stay connected and experience new things, safety should be a top priority.”
The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress is open from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. during the summer and provides high-quality enrichment and recreational programs to youth of all ages.
For over 35 years the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress has been at the forefront of youth development, working with people of all economic, ethnic, social and family circumstances, with special concern for those who are disadvantaged. They provide children with a safe place to grow and learn, ongoing relationships with caring adult professionals and life enhancing programs. Over 1,100 youth between the ages of 5 and 17 take advantage of the services and programs provided by the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress. They also host a variety of family activity nights and partners with youth and family organizations.
For more information or to register your child, please visit www.boysandgirlsclubofcypress.com., stop by the Boys and Girls Club at 10161 Moody Street in Cypress or call them at 714-527-2697.