Contributor
AMBER ROBINSON
Teens in Action Program Specialist
Hey there! My name is Amber Robinson, and I am a Teens in Action Program Specialist at Camp Fire First Texas. Camp Fire First Texas’ Teens in Action (TIA for short) is a free in-school and out-of-school time (OST) post-secondary readiness program that amplifies teens’ potential by providing diverse opportunities to introduce our youth to career, college, and community connections.
Teens in Action Program Specialist, Amber Robinson
“Go, grow, bloom” – Let’s talk about it!
“We can grow wherever we are planted.”
“Go, grow, bloom” is a personal motto that I came up with that reminds me that every season of life has its own journey and that we can grow wherever we are planted. When it comes to my experience serving youth, I have found that OST programs can provide youth with the space to go, grow, and ultimately bloom. The first step is always the “go,” that initial decision and choice to go through with something. For example, it can be giving that hobby you’re interested in a try, joining that school club, helping your community, or choosing to develop your SPARK, to name a few. The first step isn’t always easy, but it’s the key to growth. The second part of the journey is the “growth,” the confidence through experience that you gain along the way. Third and lastly, just like a flower – you’re blooming!
For this blog, I would like to highlight one of our very own TIA youths who is doing just that! Delores “Lola” Mills is a rising Senior who participates in both Camp Fire First Texas’ Teens in Action program and Camp Fire National’s Youth Advisory Cabinet (Y.A.C.). I decided to interview Lola to let her tell us how she is blooming from the experience.
Amber: Lola, tell us a little bit about yourself.
Lola: My name is Lola, and I really do enjoy the arts such as writing, visual arts, painting, and playing music. I’m a big music person. I have been playing instruments since I was nine and have been painting longer. I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family.
Amber: What is your Spark (interest, talent, hobby, or passion)?
Lola: I’d say my spark is definitely music. Music and coloring. I’m a big coloring and music person.
Amber: The first and most important part of “go, grow, bloom,” is taking that first step and making the decision to “go.” How did you get introduced and involved with Y.A.C.?
Lola: I was introduced by you, Ms. Amber. You are what made me want to join it. I got involved by first applying for the Y.A.C. program and then completing all the requirements. I attended meetings and spoke with people who are on the board, to get my input heard.
Amber: The second part of the motto is “grow.” How have you grown during your time with Y.A.C?
Lola: I’ve grown by learning about more organizations that YAC is connected with, being able to have my voice heard along with other people my age, which is really impactful and fulfilling.
Delores “Lola” Mills (front row, far right) participates in the Texas Networks of Youth Services (TNYOS) Youth Rally in March 2023.
Amber: How have you bloomed from this experience with Y.A.C.?
Lola: Y.A.C. has given me the ability to speak out and speak for people my age. That helps because it shows that youth are not willing to settle for less.
Amber: What are your future aspirations?
Lola: My future aspirations are getting into my dream college in New York and studying to become a person in the fashion industry.
Amber: What is your motto?
Lola: My favorite motto is a song lyric by Tyler the Creator. “You think the sky is the limit, but that’s just what we stand on.”
Lola was also able to put her growth into action by using her voice to advocate for her community at the Texas Networks of Youth Services (TNYOS) Youth Rally back in March of this year. That opportunity gave her the confidence to speak to Texas State Representative and Fort Worth native, Ramon Romero. Lola and several TIA youths were provided with the space to share concerns that they had in their community. Lola, who spoke on behalf of her friends, also relayed their concerns to Representative Romero. The experience will be one that she will never forget and will be a part of her “go, grow, bloom” journey.
