Every Child Deserves a Village: The Truth About Kids Today & How You Can Help with Superintendent Dave Larson | Part 1

Kids today are facing more than most adults realize—and far more than many faced even a decade ago. Rising disconnection, childhood trauma, unstable home environments, and the loss of everyday supportive relationships have left too many young people in Miami County navigating life without the steady presence of a caring adult.

In this powerful two-part conversation, Miami County ESC Superintendent Dave Larson opens up about the real state of our kids—what teachers, coaches, and school leaders are seeing every day, and why community-based youth mentoring has become one of the most urgent needs in our region.

Dave shares personal stories of his own daughters walking through trauma, what he’s seen across classrooms and athletic fields, and why he believes every child—no matter their ZIP code, background, or family situation—deserves a village of supportive adults who won’t give up on them.

You’ll hear:

• Why so many kids across Miami County feel disconnected and unseen

• What “kids from hard stories” truly face—and how healing relationships take root

• The gap that volunteer mentors can fill, especially for youth navigating poverty, instability, or trauma

• How simple, consistent presence—not expertise—changes a child’s trajectory

• Why rebuilding our county’s “relational village” may be the most important work we do

Whether you’re from Troy, Piqua, Tipp City, Covington, Bradford, or somewhere in between, this conversation will expand your picture of what local kids are carrying—and how you can play a real role in changing their story.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you could be the steady, encouraging adult a young person is waiting for… this episode is your sign.

Take the next step toward becoming a mentor—or simply explore what’s possible.
Fill out this no-commitment form:
https://tr.ee/mpmc_digital