Current Workgroups
We have a variety of standing and ad hoc workgroups that are open to all community members and meet on a schedule determined by the workgroup. Contact us to learn more about and how to get involved with any of the following:
Where Can I Homer (WCIH)
WhereCanIHomer.org is a youth created and staffed website of frequently updated events to help youth and young adults find activities to do in the community.
Youth Connectors: Poppy Smith, Ashe Dias, Ahni Cook, Sofia Loboy (*former founder of WCIH).
Adult Supports: Ginny Espenshade, Anna Meredith (not pictured)
Homer Youth Activities Network
Purpose: Create and Connect a network for out of school time programming.
Pilot Project of Homer Youth Activities Network:
The Paul Banks Afterschool Program is currently operating as a pilot project designed to test a structured, enriching afterschool model for elementary-aged students. The pilot focuses on providing a safe, consistent environment that blends academic support, physical activity, creative play, and social–emotional development. Feedback from students, families, and staff during this pilot phase is being used to refine programming, staffing, and scheduling, with the goal of creating a sustainable, high-quality and accessible afterschool program that can be expanded to serve all grade levels in the future.
A note from Sonja:
Hi I’m Sonja Kontra and I’m the new Youth Activity Network Coordinator. This roll is very exciting, as it is the position that has been born from the efforts of Planet Youth Homer. I am thrilled to take on the roll as Network Coordinator and work alongside Homer’s vastly talented network of youth programming. Together we can create sustainable, high-quality programming for all Homer Youth.
Coordinator Sonja Kontra with her husband, Jordan Kontra and their daughter, Anllela Kontra
Engagement
The SKPRC Engagement Workgroup communicates about the coalition’s purpose and goals inviting all community members to participate in this important work.
Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMFHA)
Teen Mental Health First Aid is a program that gives teens the tools to recognize the signs of mental health challenges, listen non-judgmentally, and know when professional help is needed. It does NOT ask students to diagnose, counsel, or handle crises on their own. The program is evidence-based and aligns with the growing emphasis on support for mental health education in schools, helping create a safer and more supportive environment for students.