In this powerful talk, Trout challenges young people to see themselves as strong, capable and resource-rich. Too often, life's adverse circumstances create a distorted picture of who we are and what is possible. The self-defeating and challenging behaviors that grow out of this distortion make it difficult for us to see, much less activate, our strengthsthat is, to see the rest of the story.

Trout challenges the audience to be the 'alternate mirror' and reflect the extraordinary strengths these challenged and challenging young people use every day to survivethe same strengths they use to thrive.

A visionary speaker, writer and advisor, Trout has ignited diverse audiences from South Central Los Angeles to rural Canada, and inspired individuals from New Zealand to South Africa. He has created model programs for high-risk youth, co-developed a nationally recognized substance abuse prevention strategy and coached individuals and organizations through dramatic and transformative change. He is the author of 'Reflecting Strengths: Transformative Lessons from Resilient Youth.'

The UMF Happiness Challenge is a collection of 10 habits that can have a positive impact on a person's life. This program originated at Harvard in 2013 and is based on the latest science that shows happiness is more of a daily lifestyle than big events. One simple decision to take a break, call a friend or try something new can have a positive impact on a person's health and well-being.

This event is sponsored by the UMF Student Health Center and inspired by this year's UMF Mantor Library On Our Minds current book theme 'Your Story Matters,' and the book choice, 'The Other Wes Moore.'

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