YJI is an amazing program. I was involved with this program while in high school for a few years. It was always a pleasure to be a part of a group that helps future writers (and artists) write stories that are published in the local paper as well as online. I can remember our local team in Bristol, CT working with kids from all over the country and all over the world submitting amazing stories from life as a teen, surviving high school, and more in depth and personal stories such as the life of a girl who's life was turned upside down because of Hurricane Katrina, and a student's struggle with his sexuality. It is a very educational program, as I learned to write and edit stories that were to be published, and worked with other writers at my age that were just as passionate as I was. This program really helps students realize their potential as writers and editors, and many of the stories have won local, regional, and national journalism awards! I continue working with the group after I had moved away to Florida, still publishing stories until life got in the way, but I am always there to support their cause and help other students achieve the experience and inspiration that I had while being a part of YJI.