YR Stories: YR Alumni Aiden Hamilton Describes How “Three Short Days” Forever Changed His Life

TEENPOWER, aka the happiest place on earth, is a conference that shows kids how to have fun without the use of substances. The goal is to create a community of peers and mentors that all share similar morals. Whether it’s watching the Morning Show amp up the energy after breakfast or it’s being in your Family Group’s Variety Show skit, TEENPOWER is full of exciting moments. The energizers, the games, and the people are amazing. The staff at TEENPOWER is full of vibrant, loving, and caring people that take the time to connect with people beyond their surface levels. The Youth, College, and Adult Staffs make for one of the best support systems you will ever have. 

I discovered TEENPOWER because my mother decided to register me without my knowledge. I wasn’t exactly thrilled with her. This was all back in the sixth grade. Five years ago I was the equivalent of a hermit crab, introverted to the max. For someone like me who was reserved, being thrown into a camp with a bunch of hyperactive kids can be an uncomfortable experience. 

However, believe me when I tell you that it was worth it. TEENPOWER changed all that for me.

The three short days I was at TEENPOWER had a lasting effect on how I carry myself to this day. Being at TEENPOWER helped me realize that it was okay to open up my shell and make new friends in addition to the ones I already had. After my experience, I noticed I had a better mentality when approaching social events throughout the year. Noticing that change in myself is what kept me coming back to TEENPOWER. I grew as a person and there is no better feeling than that. 

Later, I joined the TEENPOWER Youth Staff. Even if it is just one person’s life I can change for the better, it’s worth it to me. Building positive, healthy relationships through TEENPOWER and Youth Resources creates something bigger than myself. I loved being part of something that made my community better for my friends and my peers. 

About Aiden

Aiden Hamilton is a sophomore at Harrison High School. He’s a member of the Teen Advisory Council and a member of the TEENPOWER’s Youth Staff.