It started small. Ivory Gerhardt-Cyrus just wanted to create a safe space for teenagers to hang out. So, she started hosting teen nights at her house in Kiana.
It’s been three years since Ivory started those teen nights. Now, she’s the founder of OPT In Kiana, a youth group that challenges its members to do One Positive Thing every day. This April, OPT In Kiana hosted its second annual conference, with speakers and youth from all over the region in attendance. Despite being recognized at the state and national level, the group has retained their all-inclusive attitude: anyone can choose to opt in.
To hear words from Kiana’s inspiring youth, tune in to Story49 on KNOM (780 AM, 96.1 FM) on Sunday, May 21st, at 6:00pm, and then again on Thursday, May 25th, at 3:00pm. You can also listen online using the audio player above.
If you or someone you know has a story to share, contact KNOM at 443-5221 or by email at story49@knom.org.
Story49: Sharing your story, your voice, your Alaska.
