JACKSON COUNTY – During a summer photo shoot atop a Jackson rooftop, the teen members of DRIP laughed with each other, perfected TikTok dances, and just genuinely enjoyed being together. They are a tight-knit, inclusive and enthusiastic group making a positive impact with the relationships they’re building in the community and with each other.
DRIP stands for Developing Responsibility in our Peers, and they are the teen council group that leads the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiative, which was founded in 2006 through a collaboration between United Way and the Jackson County Health Department. Under the interim volunteer leadership of Jasmine Isaac, DRIP provides in-school health education programming and afterschool leadership opportunities for teens ages 15-19 in Jackson County.
“My favorite part about the program is how close-knit the students become with each other throughout the year,” Isaac said. “DRIP is a fun, safe place in Jackson to be a teen and to learn how to become a leader. Students are proud and excited to be a part of the group.”
The group, currently 17 strong, promotes youth voice and peer mentorship in a variety of ways, including middle school mentorship. DRIP members present and lead sessions on topics such as healthy relationships, mental health, peer pressure and stress. They share stories and advice on these issues as the middle schoolers prepare to make their transition into high school. In addition to the value they bring to younger students, Isaac also sees the growth in the teens themselves.
“They’re more confident in sharing their perspectives and voices on teen, community, and school issues,” she said. “They’re wanting to carry themselves well because they realize they are role models to the younger youth. It also helps them be more empowered to try new things.”
One recent project was a collaboration with Jackson County Intermediate School District. DRIP hosted a workshop at a professional development day that was attended by more than 100 school administrators and staff. In their workshop, “The Teen Point of View,” they answered questions about topics including the pros and cons of their school experience, mental health, technology policies, and inclusive sexual health education.
This school year, the council will have new leadership as Michelle Gordon-Releford joins the program. They are also expanding their mentorship at Northeast Elementary School with the Lunch Buddy Project. Their aim is to aid 5th-grade students in their transition into middle school by building trusted mentor relationships during lunch and recess throughout the school year.
“These kids are unique, dependable, and hilarious,” Isaac said. “Each student has their strengths and weaknesses, and they work together to accomplish our goals. I can always rely on them to show up and do a great job. There is never a dull day with these kids. We always have fun and we are always laughing.”
Note from the Jackson County Health Department: As Jasmine Isaac bids farewell to the program, a new chapter is set to unfold as Michelle Gordon-Releford steps in to lead the way for the upcoming school year. Michelle, poised to take the reins, is committed to building upon the foundation laid by Jasmine. If you’re a teen interested in joining DRIP or know someone who might be, reach out to Michelle at 517-768-2150. As DRIP enters this exciting new phase, the legacy of mentorship, leadership, and camaraderie continues to flourish, leaving an indelible mark on Jackson County.
