CUU is proud to offer these programs for the youth of our community:
Junior Youth Group: Students in grades 6-8 are invited to join this group that meets after service on the second Sunday of each month. Two experienced advisors lead the youth in planning special projects and activities throughout the year. They are Bob Ciampaglia and LuAnn Day. Past projects have included hosting an intergenerational Halloween party, assisting with the Adopt a Highway and Angel Tree programs, working at the annual Flea Market and taking trips to nearby amusement parks. Dues of $15.00 per year are collected in September and the group raises additional funds to support their activities.
Senior Youth Group: Teri Ciampaglia and Greg Thorne serve as advisors to this group of youth in grades 9-12. The group meets on the First Sunday of each month, at Teri Ciampaglia’s home from 2-4 p.m.. The youth are encouraged to take more active leadership roles in choosing, planning and running their activities. Advisors provide guidance and oversight to foster youth empowerment and encourage spiritual growth in a healthy, safe environment. Some popular activities include midnight bowling trips, taking part in the Angel Tree program and hosting family style dinners to raise funds for their summer travel adventures. The group also attends youth cons – weekend long conferences organized and run by youth from around the JPD district. Group activities are funded in the same manner as in the junior youth group.
Coming of Age Program: This program is designed for high school youth who are making the transition from childhood into young adulthood. It serves to guide them in navigating this transition, to support them in their search for truth and meaning, to foster self-awareness and responsibility, to prepare them to become active members of the congregation and empowered leaders of the youth group, and to involve their parents and other adults in this rite of passage journey.
The program consists of a weekly class which meets from September through June, individual monthly mentoring sessions with a non-related, adult, and various group gatherings and projects. The year culminates in a special service of celebration led by the youth and their adult leaders before the entire congregation. $50.00 Activity and supplies fee. (Sliding scale as needed)
Our Whole Lives: This course on holistic human sexuality is offered every two or three years based on the number of eligible youth. It provides accurate, open information to students, teaching them about sexuality in an affirming and supportive religious community. Students are encouraged to make informed, responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. Six subject areas are covered, including human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health and society and culture. This helps students clarify their values, build skills and understand the spiritual, emotional, social and political aspects of sexuality. Parents must attend an orientation session prior to giving their consent for their child to participate in the course. An activity and supplies fee will apply.