Snowball is having their annual retreat of the year the weekend of March 14 (Friday) to March 16 (Sunday).
Operation Snowball is a youth leadership program designed to empower high school students through prevention education, community advocacy, and leadership development. The program fosters a partnership between teens and adults, utilizing the energy and influence of youth to create a positive peer support atmosphere. Participants engage in activities that promote healthy decision-making, enhance self-esteem, and develop effective communication skills.
The cornerstone of Operation Snowball is its weekend retreat, typically held in the fall and spring. During this retreat, teens participate in large group presentations, workshops, and small group discussions, all planned by teen directors and staff with guidance from caring adults. These sessions address issues pertinent to teenagers, such as building friendships, the effects of drugs and alcohol, social media, physical and mental health, family dynamics, self-identity, and interpersonal relationships.
In a random survey of Morton East students, only 13 out of 100 have ever attended the Snowball retreat. Students must pay $175 to attend; they sometimes fundraise and receive donations from teachers and staff to come up with the funds.
“I believe that students who go on the Snowball retreat can expect to experience a positive community. Snowball is all about making friends and creating memories with those around you. I would recommend that every student give it a chance because they could make lifelong friends,” said teacher and Snowball Club advisor Dalton Elkins.
Another student shares the same sentiment about the Snowball retreat.
“I believe that the Snowball retreat is a great experience for students. I went on the retreat, and I had a really good experience. I got to meet different people, but I also learned to get to know myself as a person. Overall, it was a great retreat, and I believe students would love to attend,” said Senior Valeria Rodriguez.
Another student echoed the same thoughts about the retreat.
“I believe the Snowball retreat was an amazing experience for me. I went on the retreat, and I got to see a different side of myself that I never really knew. I also had the chance to meet different types of people and make new friends, so I think students would love to be a part of the retreat. It’s an unforgettable memory that you’ll never forget,” said Senior Desaray Gonzalez.
