Seeds of Change (SOC) is an annual youth conference for Bergen County high school students. The goal of the SOC is to provide a positive youth development experience while educating participants on various topics which may include cultural humility, leadership, equity, tolerance, mental health, substance misuse, and action planning.
To help us prepare and provide your district with materials needed for board approval and transportation planning, please complete our short https://cafs.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_77DgNyRo1SoWqVw
We kindly ask that you also share this opportunity with the youth you may know. Bergen county schools may bring up to 10 students; if additional space becomes available, schools may be invited to include more attendees.
For more information, please see the attached flyer or feel free to contact us directly:
- Asia Goode – agoode@cafsnj.org | (201) 740-7095
- Angelica Rodriguez – anrodriguez@cafsnj.org | (201) 740-7099
Event Details
Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Felician University – Lodi Campus
262 South Main Street, Lodi, NJ 07644
Target Audience: Bergen County High School Students (Grades 9–12)
Keynote Presentation
The Backpack of Life: Navigating High School with Resilience & Success
In today’s world, students often feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, and perfectionism as they navigate the many pressures of adolescence. This dynamic and empowering keynote will equip students with the tools they need to thrive emotionally and socially. Lauren will address the challenges of balancing academics, relationships, personal expectations, and the pressures of the digital world while providing actionable steps to navigate life with confidence and clarity.
About Lauren Muriello LPC:
Lauren is a licensed psychotherapist, founder of Well Being Therapy Center, and trusted mental health speaker with over twenty years of experience working with teens and their families. As a motivational speaker, Lauren has delivered impactful presentations to thousands of students, parents, and educators, earning praise for her relatable and engaging approach.
Lauren received her Bachelor's Degree from Cornell University and her Master's Degree from Montclair State University, where she earned the Dean's Leadership Award. She specializes in equipping young people with practical tools to manage stress, build resilience, and foster emotional well being. Lauren’s presentations are known for blending humor, insight, and real-world solutions to inspire positive change.
Agenda
| Arrival & Check-in | 8:30 AM |
| Welcome | 9:00 AM |
| Keynote: The Backpack of Life: Navigating High School with Resilience & Success | 9:30 AM |
| Glow Signals: What Your Brain Is Telling You | 10:35 AM |
| Glow Up Your Coping Game | 11:15 AM |
| Action Planning | 12:15 PM |
| Lunch | 1:00 PM |
| Conference Conclusion | 2: 00 PM |
