Today is the three week mark that I have been flying solo as the Brunswick Area Teen Center coordinator since the retirement of longtime coordinator Jordan Cardone.

She has been known as my crutch and safety net. Granted, she is only an email or phone call away if I am experiencing a brief bout of panic or a case of WWJD (What Would Jordan Do?) But, I am happy to report that as each day at the Teen Center comes to a close, I am growing more and more confident in my role.

In accepting the new position as Teen Center coordinator, I knew I would be faced with many unique and new challenges. My first and perhaps most rewarding challenge to date may sound simple to some, but in all honestly may prove to be the most important. It was the “simple” feat of earning trust.

Although it took some time (certain teens took more time than others) I have managed to break through some of their imaginary walls. With Jordan leaving — the teens adored her greatly — it was very difficult to build a rapport with the kids. Learning their names was the easy part. It was building a mutual trust and respect that has taken a little time.

But I am happy to report that even in these brief three weeks, the teens and I have made a positive connection and we all look forward to the three days the center is open each week.

On a side note, the teens have expressed interest in fundraising for a second PlayStation 3 so that they can play each other online in various sports games in preparation for the first annual Teen Center Gaming Tourney. The tourney date and details will be posted on the Facebook page and in the next Pulse.

So stayed tuned for more teen time info. I’m excited to see where this ride takes me.