JACKSON, New Jersey — May 19, 2014 — Six Flags Great Adventure will team up with Teen Truth to help raise awareness about bullying. The park’s first Teen Truth: An Anti-Bullying Rally will be heldFriday, May 23 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Showcase Theater. Two local teens making a difference in the anti-bullying crusade will participate.
Teen Truth focuses on educating teens about bullying, and gives them a voice while challenging them to think differently about the choices they make and how it can impact others. The one-hour assembly will feature a student-produced short film followed by speakers who will discuss the issues facing teens today and how they can overcome them.
Aidan Benavides, a teen from Marlboro, NJ, decided to take a stand after attending a Teen Truth rally. He founded Aidan’s Voice, a non-profit organization designed to bring awareness and positive change to families and educators.
“I am different from other boys, I do not like sports, I like theater and musicals. I get made fun of on a daily basis,” Benavides explained on his website, www.aidansvoice.com. He created Aidan’s Voice when he was in seventh grade. “After being involved in a bullying incident, I began to appreciate the support of my family and friends. Realizing that not everyone is as fortunate as myself, my wish is that Aidan’s Voice will reach out to those in need of support.” Benavides will participate in Friday’s event.
Also attending Friday’s rally will be Miss Teen New Jersey International 2014, Alexandra Marschall. The Jackson, NJ teen faced ridicule at school from teachers and peers for pursing her dream of competing in beauty pageants. With the help and support of her family and friends, she persevered. Marschall’s mission is to spread awareness, make a difference in her community and ultimately put an end to bullying.
Teen Truth builds safe and connected school communities around the world. For more information on the Teen Truth Anti-Bully Experience, visit www.teentruth.net. Six Flags Great Adventure is open Friday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The park is open daily. To see the latest operating hours and special events, please visit www.sixflags.com/greatadventure
