When a tragedy occurs in a community involving a young person, the community is devastated and wants to take action. But, knowing how to steer the adversity into positive action while staying sensitive to the family members and friends of the student(s) killed, can be overwhelming. These tragedies, while upsetting, are important teaching moments and should be a time for schools and communities to work together to educate students and help prevent future tragedies. When programs are done in a positive way and with the safety of the community’s youth as a focus, they will help the community heal while also creating a safer driving culture for everyone.

The Steering Tragedy into Positive Action Guide will help you and your students navigate the best way to address the tragedy and honor the memory of the student(s) killed while remaining sensitive to the family and friends who were impacted. By keeping your efforts positive and educational, you’re sure to have a positive impact that will make a difference in your school and community.

After reviewing the guide mentioned above, refer to the Project Ideas Packet for examples of what you can do to take tragedy in your community and turn in into positive action. It’s all about keeping focus, having a goal(s), and involving the entire community, including the family and friends of the student(s) killed. With time, some will find comfort in being able to honor their loved ones through action, helping to have a greater impact on teens and the community as a whole.

We hope this guide along with the project ideas will help your school and community take action to make a difference and help save more lives on Virginia’s roadways.

If you have questions or would like to reach out for ideas and/or further discussion, please contact YOVASO’s program manager, Mary King by email or phone at 804.461.0396.