HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety (YOVASO) announced they will be hosting a beach-themed Summer Leadership Retreat at James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, VA, from July 17–20.

Teenagers who will be rising 9th to 12th graders this fall can attend for $15 per person. School clubs, church and community youth groups (bring up to 6 students + 1 adult advisors for just $75 per team) can also attend.

Attenders will spend four days of learning leadership training, hands-on safety experiences, making friendships and memories — all while learning how to be a smarter, safer driver and passenger.

This year’s theme is, “Tides, Vibes, and Safe Rides.”

On the agenda is:

  • Motivational speaker Cara Filler
  • A crash and hospital trauma bay simulation by VCU Health Project Impact
  • WRAP’s (Washington Regional Alcohol Program) Alcohol Awareness for Students interactive presentation
  • ThinkFast Multi-Media Trivia Gameshow with TjohnE
  • Leadership & advocacy workshops
  • Interactive safety experiences with Virginia State Police (VSP), Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), DRIVE SMART VA, and more, including the VSP Distracted Driving Simulators.
  • Nightly socials, including the glow stick game, talent show, pajama night with a DJ, and a beachy twist on the Amazing Race

“We’re excited to offer this unique and affordable experience for teens to learn safe driving in a fun and empowering way,” says Mary King, YOVASO Program Manager in a press release. “Our VSP troopers, staff, and guest presenters enjoy working with teens and deliver safe driving programs that are fun, yet impactful. We encourage all teens to take advantage of this affordable program by joining us this summer for Tides, Vibes, and Safe Rides.”

Register here at www.yovaso.org/summer-retreat. For questions, email Mary King at mary.king@vsp.virginia.gov.

Registration closes June 21, and space is limited. Fee includes all meals, educational sessions, overnight accommodations, materials, and a retreat t-shirt, backpack, lanyard, and water bottle.