On September 23rd and 24th, hundreds of Heard County students in 8th through 12th grades participated in the Teen Maze event. Each group of students spent about an hour navigating various life scenarios, learning along the way how certain choices can have life-altering consequences. From impairment goggles to pregnancy bellies to a casket, our agency partners used an array of props, pictures, and demonstrations to educate students on the risks involved in the choices they make everyday.
Every scenario presented to students directed them to a booth staffed by a professional in that particular field with whom
the students could interact and ask questions. This face-to-face interaction with professionals such as law enforcement healthcare professionals and bankers gave students the opportunity to see the people in their community who could actually help them should they find themselves in need. Additionally, each student received a Teen Maze resource book containing education on topics such as online safety, dangers of tobacco use and vaping, and mental health awareness. Contact information for all agencies that participated was also in the book so that students know how to reach out if they need more help.
The students were enthusiastic as they participated and gave strong positive ratings to Teen Maze in a follow-up survey. Ninety-four percent of respondents reported that their Teen Maze experience made them more aware of possible consequences of risky behavior. The same percentage of students said they felt more confident in warning a friend against risky behavior as a result of their Teen Maze experience.
With more than 100 volunteers serving across three days, Teen Maze 2025 was a true picture of collaboration in action. The hours of planning and setup, sharing of materials and personnel, and warm interactions with students all combined to create an impactful, memorable experience.
The HCCP Executive Board and staff would like to express our sincerest gratitude for all agency personnel, community members, students, and school system staff who worked so hard to bring this event to our students. You can be certain lives were impacted because of your hard work!
You can access the full photo gallery here.