THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, July 2, 1995 TAG: 9506300224
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 04 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: Allison Williams
DATELINE: ISLE OF WIGHT LENGTH: Medium: 76 lines
A teenager's life often is a long road filled with bumps, obstacles and dangerous detours: pregnancy, smoking, drug use, lack of motivation and low self-esteem.
That's the way Linda Porter sees it, and she should know - she is Isle of Wight County's youth coordinator.
``Our youth lack a sense of direction in their lives,'' Porter said. ``I see so many needs in our young people.
``I believe all youth are at-risk for taking the wrong road - the road full of negative influences - in their lives. I try to help them find the positive way to develop into adulthood.''
Since its creation in 1991, the Isle of Wight County Office on Youth has sponsored programs designed to educate and empower local teenagers, Porter says. For example, the Office on Youth sponsors a variety of workshops, including healthy ways to handle conflict, an anti-smoking class and helping teens find summer jobs.
For the past few months, Porter has spearheaded planning efforts for the Office on Youth and the county Recreational Facilities Authority's summer recreation camp. The camp, which is free to all county youth between the ages of 6 and 16, is partially staffed by teens trained through her office.
The Office on Youth also works Isle of Wight's court system by giving work to juveniles who have been assigned community service. Instead of having the youth pick up trash or mow yards, Porter tries to make sure the youngsters are assigned projects the will benefit them.
``We try to give them more meaningful work,'' Porter said. ``We hope they learn some valuable skills that will help them in their life.''
What brought you to Isle of Wight County? My 1991 marriage to Everett Porter Jr., who resided in Isle of Wight County.
Birthdate/hometown: Feb. 25, 1949 in Newsoms.
What's your fondest childhood memory? Making mud pies in our family's driveway with my sister, Shirley, and my cousin, Elsie.
Pets: No! Four children is enough!
What was your first job? Employment counselor.
Occupation: Coordinator of Youth Services for Isle of Wight County.
If you had the chance to change your career, what type of work would you be doing today? Full-time youth minister in my local church.
What is your favorite way to spend a night out on the town? Seafood dinner and seeing an on-stage play with my husband.
Favorite food/drink: Flounder stuffed with crab meat and herb tea with mint.
Favorite movies/TV shows: ``Pretty Woman,'' ``Bodyguard'' and ``The Lion King.'' Television shows, ``Star Trek Next Generation'' and ``X-Files.''
What's your idea of a perfect vacation? A week in the mountains and a week at the beach.
I can't resist: a child.
Few people know that I: am shy.
What's your most embarrassing moment? Missing a luncheon appointment with an elderly couple.
If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money? I would help people who are in need. However, I don't play the lottery so the opportunity will never arise.
What is the best advice you've ever been given? Slow down and relax.
What do you think is the best thing about yourself? My desire to help children in need and at-risk.
If you could trade places with anyone in the world, who would it be? I am happy with myself.
Of what achievements are you most proud? Being the mother of four wonderful children.
Favorite hangout: My bedroom. I lock the door and put out my ``Do Not Disturb'' sign, take a ginger bath and read. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by MICHAEL KESTNER
Linda Porter
by CNB