Del Rio Unites for Third Annual Teen Empowerment Summit

On Tuesday, February 11th, 2025, Del Rio held it’s third annual Teen Empowerment Summit on the Val Verde County Courthouse Lawn. The event was put on to show teens the dangers of teen dating violence and to empower those teens who may be going through similar experiences. The summit featured music, photo stands, guest speakers, business and organization stands, and much more.

Among the guest speakers was Vivian Sanchez, Prevention Coordinator with the Texas Council on Family Violence, who shared her experience with teen dating violence and showed how a situation like this can really affect the victim.

“Being anywhere besides home was overwhelming.” “I question everyone’s intentions in my life now. Do they really care?" "Or are they another him?” - Vivian Sanchez, Prevention Coordinator, Texas Council on Family Violence shared.

Many of Del Rio’s businesses came together during this event to promote and to further empower teens, featuring games, prizes, trinkets, and more.

“We hope to accomplish many good things… we’re starting our young pilot program or what we call our youth artist program, to challenge and get a lot of individuals… so they can actually display it [artwork] or sell,” - Paul Mancha, Executive Director, Del Rio Comic-Con.

“This event is important because it allows teens to see that they have a community of support and that they have adults that are invested in their safety and well being, ” Lucy Cazares, Safe Kids Coordinator/Community Educator, Val Verde Regional Medical Center told us.

Part of the event was A Walk With Warriors, where law enforcement, important figures, and participants alike walked around the block to showcase their strength and fierceness to continue on the path of empowerment.

This event not only sheds light on a serious issue within our society but also helps bring the community together and fosters a sense of support and hope within our young minds. With the third annual Teen Empowerment Summit coming to a close, there is one message that remains clear: "Empowerment starts with awareness, and together we can make a difference to empower those around us."