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First Monday Memo
March 4th, 2024
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EYES ON:
Sex Ed For All: Empowering College Peer Educators
with Nazma Noray
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Sexual health education is a crucial component of comprehensive health education, particularly within college settings where young adults navigate complex relationships and sexual experiences. Recognizing the pivotal role of peer educators in promoting healthy sexual behaviors and attitudes among college students.
EyesOpenIowa(EOI) collaborated with Nazma Noray, a Master of Public Health candidate specializing in Community and Behavioral Health. Under the mentorship of Kristin Fairholm, the Executive Director of EOI, Noray embarked on a practicum experience aimed at enhancing the capabilities of college peer educators through the development of a comprehensive sex education toolkit.
Noray's practicum experience focused on creating a sex education toolkit tailored specifically for college peer educators in Iowa. The objective was to equip peer educators with the necessary resources to facilitate open dialogue, provide accurate information, and create supportive environments for discussing sexual health topics on college campuses. The project consisted of two main deliverables: the development of the sex education toolkit and a brief summarizing the findings from literature reviews and focus groups conducted with college peer educators, including members of EOI's youth advisory council.
Noray meticulously crafted a comprehensive toolkit encompassing various elements essential for effective peer-led sex education. The toolkit includes peer educator best practices, activity guides, customizable social media posts, and handouts, designed to be user-friendly and adaptable to diverse campus settings. By incorporating evidence-based strategies and youth-centric approaches, the toolkit aims to empower peer educators to engage their peers in meaningful conversations about sexual health.
Noray's experience not only contributed to the enhancement of sex education resources for college peer educators but also provided her with valuable hands-on experience in the field of public health. The development of the sex education toolkit signifies a step forward in promoting comprehensive and inclusive sexual health education initiatives within college communities.
Sex education is a fundamental aspect of promoting healthy behaviors and relationships among young adults, particularly within college settings. The collaboration between EOI, Nazma Noray, and members of EOI's youth advisory council exemplifies a concerted effort to empower college peer educators with the necessary tools and resources to effectively promote sexual health and well-being among their peers. By equipping peer educators with evidence-based strategies and adaptable resources, the project aims to foster a culture of openness, inclusivity, and empowerment within college communities, ultimately contributing to improved sexual health outcomes among young adults.
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Sexual Health Responsibility and Accountability:
Men's Health Month
By Dakota Deal
As we gear up for Men's Health Month this June, it's crucial to highlight a significant aspect often overlooked: sexual health responsibility.
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In today's world, societal pressures and stereotypes about masculinity can sometimes make it challenging to discuss our sexual health openly. However, it's essential to recognize that sexual health responsibility isn't limited to one gender or group but is a shared responsibility for all of us.
Sexual health refers to the overall well-being of individuals in relation to their sexuality. It includes physical aspects like reproductive health and preventing STIs, as well as emotional, mental, and social factors. It involves having positive attitudes towards sexuality, healthy relationships, and access to supportive services. Essentially, sexual health is about promoting a respectful and informed approach to sexuality and ensuring people have the resources they need to make healthy choices.
Why should we care? Well, challenging these stereotypes empowers us to take control of our well-being. By creating a supportive environment where discussions about sexual health are welcomed, we're taking a significant step forward in looking after ourselves and each other.
Engaging in conversations about sexual health responsibility isn't just about self-preservation; it's about supporting each other. Whether it's understanding the importance of regular STI testing, practicing safer sex to prevent unintended pregnancies, or knowing when to seek medical help, it's a collective effort.
AND, let's not forget about our partners. Respecting their boundaries and supporting their needs is just as crucial as looking after our own sexual health. It's time to move away from relying solely on women for birth control; it's a joint responsibility that we all share.
Healthy relationships thrive on trust, communication, and mutual respect. By prioritizing open and honest discussions about sexual health with our partners, we not only strengthen our connections but also create a safer and more fulfilling environment for everyone involved.
Understanding the value of communication in taking responsibility for reducing the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies is just the beginning. By valuing open communication about our sexual needs and boundaries, we can ensure that we feel connected and safe with each other in our relationships.
So, guys, as we celebrate Men's Health Month and beyond, let's break down those barriers and start talking about sexual health. Together, we can promote a culture of inclusivity and responsibility that benefits us all.
Remember, sexual health is a crucial part of overall well-being, and everyone deserves access to the information and resources needed to make informed decisions
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What is a Youth Advisory Council?
Youth Advisory Councils (YAC) are a youth engagement strategy used by programs and organizations to positively incorporate youth voices and help build the capacity of youth participants.
What is the purpose of EOI’s YAC?
The goal of the YAC is to improve Sexual and Reproductive Health among Iowa's youth, particularly among youth who experience systemic marginalization or discrimination. This includes promoting positive health outcomes (reduced STIs, unintended pregnancies, and reduce sexual violence) as well as expand youth development outcomes.
Benefits of Joining
EOI's YAC:
- Pay for your time $15hr
- Leadership development
- Training on sexual and reproductive health and social justice topics
- Peer Education Opportunities
- Co Facilitation Leadership $20hr
- Participation in panels and events
- Advocacy work relating to youth rights
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We are Hiring!
Looking for youth to join our Youth Advisory Council!
EyesOpenIowa is extending an invitation for Iowa’s youth (ages 16-24) to join our esteemed Youth Advisory Council (YAC) and get paid!
We are actively seeking passionate and driven youth to be part of this dynamic council!
As members of the YAC, these individuals will gain valuable experience collaborating within a collective team, where they can openly discuss their unique lived experiences.
More importantly, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the outreach strategies for our newest grant program – SHARE (Sexual Health for Adolescents Rooted in Equity), designed to empower and engage youth in Iowa.
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Eligibility:
- Must live in the state of Iowa
- Must be between the ages of 16-24
- Eligible youth will have identities in one or more of the priority populations: LGBTQIA+ youth, youth of color, and/or rural youth
This is to ensure that YACs have authentic representation and that their membership reflects the youth across their state they seek to serve.
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EyesOpenIowa's Sex Ed For ALL
Auction Results:
The auction was a lively affair, rallying supporters for comprehensive sexual education 🎉.
With an array of items up for bid, from high value antiques to exclusive experiences, participants engaged in friendly competition while advancing a crucial cause.
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The Auction raised over 💸$17,000💸
to support EyesOpenIowa!
All funds raised during May received a generous match from the Grove Foundation, doubling the impact of each donation 💰.
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Missed out on snagging your auction item? Don't worry!
You can still make a meaningful impact by donating to EyesOpenIowa. Your contribution will directly support quality sexual education initiatives, empowering individuals and communities with vital knowledge and resources. Together, let's ensure everyone has access to comprehensive, inclusive education about sexual health and relationships. Donate today and be a part of the positive change!
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What has EyesOpenIowa been up to?
On May 7th-9th, our staff, Val, participated in the Virtual Sex Ed Day On The Hill through The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS). An annual event, EOI makes sure to take the time to connect with legislators.
Val gained insights on sex ed advocacy and focused advocating attention on the following goals:
- Division of Adolescent School Health
- Currently funded at: $38 million
Goal: $100 million
- Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program
- Currently funded at: $101 million
Goal: $150 million
- Sexual Risk Avoidance
- Currently funded at: $35 million
Goal: Defund
Our advocacy team was able to talk with staffers for Senator Tina Smith (D), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D), and Representative Ilhan Omar (D), all from Minnesota.
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*Val at the Sex Ed Day On The Hill through The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) 2023 | | |
2024 Training Calendar
Join us for engaging in-person and virtual content designed to help educators teach sexual health education and sensitive topics to young people.
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Teens & Tech: Navigating Online Landscapes
Tuesday, June 25, 2024
9:00am-12:00pm CT
Location: Virtual
Cost: $150
Join our virtual 3-hour training, 'Teens and Tech,' to discover core strategies for helping teens safely navigate the digital world. Learn effective approaches to online safety, 'sexting,' managing explicit content, and understanding slang.
Gain insights into current online trends and platforms. This training focuses on core philosophies of online safety, offering practical tips for implementation. Enhance your skills and connect with professionals. Click here to sign up today!
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Shining a Spotlight: Highlighting Diverse Learners
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
9:00am-12:00pm CT
Location: Virtual
Cost: $150
Join us for 'Shining a Spotlight: Highlighting Diverse Learners,' a dynamic 3-hour virtual course designed to empower educators in sex education settings.
Discover strategies to cater to ELL/ESL students, individuals with physical or developmental disabilities, and other marginalized learners. Take ownership of your learning space and confidently make adaptations to enhance learning equitably. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your skills and create inclusive learning environments. Click here to sign up now!
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🌟 We're here to help!
If you have any questions or need further information about training opportunities, please reach out.
Your inquiries are important to us and we appreciate our network of dedicated educators!
Connect with Val - we are ready to assist you! 🌟
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