VIRTUAL TRAX

The Covid-19 pandemic undoubtedly turned everyone’s lives upside-down, perhaps even more so for isolated young people at higher risk of alcohol/substance abuse and risky behavior and in need of support networks. And like everyone else, we were forced to adapt, and do so quickly.

Launched in March 2020 for 14 (OASAS) New York statewide Youth Clubhouses, VIRTUAL TRAX was designed to create an online version of our TRAX PROGRAM by combining all the program’s key elements, goals and benefits. Using a secure customized Webex platform, VIRTUAL TRAX enabled us to ‘stay connected’ through multiple virtual Peer Support ‘Check-In’ Meetings, Business Meetinga, and Creative Workshops.

Beyond that though, we learned something incredible. Planning, goal-setting, the production of content — in fact, the entire collaborative process is different within the virtual space. Whereas our regular programs culminates in the development of in-person performance events or concerts, VIRTUAL TRAX participants shared their creative work and voices digitally across Road Recovery’s and partner agencies’ social media outlets each week.

Everyone involved is proud to share their creative work and voices across social media platforms that are amplified through the circularity of promotion from the online platforms of Road Recovery and partnering agencies, schools and/or institutions.

VIRTUAL TRAX taught us to meet young people in a place where many of them are most confident and at ease — online. For some, coming together in a virtual space is fun, but for others, working in small online groups, one-on-one, or individually offline with the staff they know and trust creates a safe environment for participation.

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