I am organizing an educational and information event in the Council Bluffs area for middle school age youth and their parents/guardians. My goal is to have a speaker or speakers to speak in regard to the rapid changes and challenges that this age group faces both mentally and physically.

The brain of a middle schooler is rapidly developing, especially in the prefrontal cortex. This period of development is marked by physical, social, and emotional changes. This is when children develop abstract thinking and begin transitioning from concrete to thinking about ideas, concepts, and objects that are not physically present.

This first event will most likely be held at the Council Bluffs Library. Although, I have also used other venues around town such as the Looft Hall at the Iowa Western Community College campus and will use again depending on interest.

At this event I will introduce New Heroes and discuss its future path and potential. Along with talking about future groups that will focus on establishing a critical thinking mindset. 

-Roger Petersen, Founder of New Heroes