During two one-day Leadership Retreats in May, 30 young people from nine Maryland counties came together to learn how to strategically share their own experiences to help others. Participants were young adults ages 19 through 29 who have lived experience in the behavioral health system.

Each retreat included team-building exercises and skill-building in storytelling. A morning spent on the ropes course helped participants to build their confidence. An afternoon workshop taught young people how to share their story in a planful way and gave them time to practice in a safe environment.

“It’s okay to tell my story,” said one participant. “I can push myself further than I think,” said another.

The retreats were led by young adult staff from MCF’s Youth Program and On Our Own of Maryland's Transitional Age Youth Outreach Project. The retreats were held at Terrapin Adventures in Savage and Camp Pecometh in Centreville.

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