How did you get the name "HUBBA"? As the formation of our initiative grew in Penn Yan, the adults and students that were at those initial meetings in the 2000-2001 school year decided that we wanted to be highly visible and memorable to anyone who interacted with us. To do so, we needed a good visual logo, and snazzy name! As we brainstormed in small groups, we found ourselves talking about how we wanted to be seen as the "hub" of a wheel in the community. Different sectors such as school, faith communities, law enforcement, etc... might represent the spokes of that wheel. As in any meetings with teens, we had one rowdy group in the corner that kept giggling. When it was their turn to share ideas, they grinned and said how about "HUBBA, HUBBA?" - never realizing that we might take it upon serious consideration. It was unanimous! We all agreed it demonstrated the spirit of fun and collaboration that asset building is all about. And HUBBA was born ... Helping Us Build Better Assets!
What happens at a HUBBA meeting?
A typical meeting starts with introductions and new members are welcomed. An activity or icebreaker (designed around the main theme or objective of the meeting) creates interaction between all members. This ensures that final seating positions include both adults and youth at each table. Updates on projects are shared, committee sign-ups are passed around. These meetings are a good forum for community members that want to bring new ideas to youth, be introduced to youth activities and programs in the town. New items for discussion is next, then closure.
When and where do HUBBA meetings take place?
We meet quarterly during the school year, during the school day. Students are released from school as a "field trip" with parent permission. We meet twice at one of the school buildings and twice at the Village Hall Offices. Meeting design/agendas are set by the HUBBA coordinator and two students. Our goal is to have half adults and half youth attending with generally 40-50 people in attendance. Our meetings last 1 1/2 hours and we always have food!
How does HUBBA find money to function to buy supplies and support their activities?
HUBBA's facilitator is a school district employee and one of their roles is to create linkages for students K-12, as well as supporting character education efforts in the different school buildings. Money for large community events is raised through donations and fund raising. Each year we have a breakfast at the Penn Yan Moose Lodge. We also sell Penn Yan Mustang Sportswear (T-shirts, sweatshirts, etc.). For special events we ask for donations from local businesses. We have also found grant money to fund smaller projects.