Event benefits prevention programs

The Counseling Center Inc. will have a Community Fun Night event on Monday, Jan. 17, at Bob Evans, 1314 Gay St. The event will be held from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and will benefit Outreach and Prevention programs for the at-risk youth in our community.

Bob Evans will donate 15 percent of each dining bill when accompanied with an official event flyer. The event flyers are available at the following locations: The Counseling Center, 1634 11th Street; The Counseling Center Administration, 923 Findlay St.; and at HopeWorks, 816 Fourth St. You may also obtain an event flyer by calling Susan McComas at (740) 354-3829, ext. 240, or email: susanm@thecounselingcenter.org.

Shawnee State steps up to the MLK Challenge

Martin Luther King Jr. inspired many people in his life and after more than 40 years since his assassination, he continues to inspire people. King said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, officially designating MLK Day as a national day of service. Each year, people across the United States come together around the King holiday to serve in their communities to honor King in the MLK Challenge Day.

SSU students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to be a part of this national movement at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, beginning with breakfast at SSU’s University Center.

A guest speaker will talk about MLK’s life and teachings. At 9:45 a.m., teams will send a team leader to choose a “mission” at random for the day. The actual volunteer work will be from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. when everyone will meet again at the University Center for reflection and dinner.

An important aspect of the event is that groups are determined on a totally random basis, challenging participants to meet new people. The service challenges are also selected on a random basis, which has proven to boost interest, fun and excitement. Teams are given basic instructions and a final goal – the rest is up to them.

Far from being told what to do and how to do it, the MLK Challenge requires participants to work together, organize and problem-solve. The effect can be very powerful to the individual who wonders how he/she can truly make a difference.

To participate in the event, individuals must register by Friday, Jan. 21, as the number of volunteer spots is limited. To register, contact Nikki Karabinis at (740) 351-3572 or e-mail nkarabinis@shawnee.edu.

Autism seminar is Thursday

A free seminar about autism is being offered from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, at The Carousel Center, 1112 Gallia St. Representatives of the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities will present on the five types of autism and the developmental areas most commonly affected. Education plan goals and teaching strategies will also be discussed. This program is sponsored by the Scioto County Board of DD Family Support Services office. To register call (740) 354-3995.

Free behavior seminar is offered

A free seminar offering positive strategies for curbing children’s misbehavior will be held from noon to 2 p.m. and again from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 25, at The Carousel Center, 1112 Gallia St. This training session will be facilitated by Scioto County Board of DD Family Support Services behavior specialist Leah Ann Joyce. Space is limited. Call (740) 354-3995 to register.