Duo Connects to SE Youth With Facebook Live Confabs

address COVID-19, mental health and more
By Tabitha Ervin

During the coronavirus pandemic, many of us have spent a considerable amount of time at home and possibly behind a computer screen for virtual meetings, e-learning and social media. As the crisis, and resulting social isolation, unfolded, two youth advocates realized that our youth were not taking health precautions seriously.

Nygel Simms, regional director for Youth for Christ, and Iric Headley, executive director of Fort Wayne United, put their heads together to address a dangerous situation: Too many young people in southeast Fort Wayne not wearing masks and not practicing social distancing.

Simms felt he could influence how safety information was being presented and received in the community because of his relational equity with many youth on the south side through the City Life Center.
Simms partnered with Headley to launch a series of Facebook Live talks. Over the last few months the 11 talks have covered topics such as COVID prevention, mental and physical health, stress and families, faith, employment, education and finances. The most recent conversation, “More than Allies,” was geared toward white allies who support African Americans in the current racial tension and beyond.
Each talk has incorporated faith, as Simms and Headley are men of strong Christian conviction and lead from that perspective. The men have pulled in other dynamic leaders from their network, whose background and knowledge allow them to speak intellectually and honestly to the community in an easy-to-understand manner.

Desired outcomes from the talks have been tangible and intangible. The conversations are meant to give people a heart check or encourage them to do more work but also have intentional conversations with others. The talks were also able to promote the “Southeast Fights COVID” initiative, in which more than 10,000 masks were handed out and made by residents.

As the talks continue, Simms and Headley want to ensure they are relevant and needed in our community and that the topics empower, encourage and educate all viewers. For example, a recent addition is “Dad Talks,” which includes Healthier Moms and Babies to facilitate real and honest conversations with dads in our community.

The talks occur every other Thursday, and you can find more information on the Fort Wayne United Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FortWayneUNITED/
The next talk will be 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 23, on Facebook. Tune in live or watch the replay.

Nygel Simms, City Life

Iric Headley, Fort Wayne United