Teen Hangout - Million Mask Movement

Teen Hangout - Million Mask Movement (11/8/2025)
11/08/2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM ET

Admission

  • Free

Location

Sterling Community Center
120 Enterprise Street
Sterling, VA 20164
United States of America

đź’Ą The FORT Teen Hangout x Million Mask Movement

Teen Hangout for Young Men (Ages 13–18)
In Partnership with the Million Mask Movement
📍 Sterling Community Center (Gym)
đź“… Saturday, November 8
🕚 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🍕 Free Event | Food & Refreshments Provided


For Parents: Why This Matters

Today’s boys face incredible pressure to “be tough,” stay silent, and hide what’s really going on. But behind every mask is a story—and a need to be seen.

This special FORT Teen Hangout, created in partnership with the Million Mask Movement, gives young men a chance to drop the act, move their bodies, and connect with others who get it.

Through soccer skill games, mask-making, and open conversation with mentors, your teen will:

  • Build confidence and brotherhood through teamwork and movement

  • Explore what it means to “take off the mask” and be real

  • Learn healthy ways to handle stress and express emotions

  • Enjoy food, laughter, and meaningful connection in a supportive space

Because when boys feel seen, heard, and supported—they thrive.


Event Highlights

âš˝ Kickoff Circle: Fun, low-pressure soccer games that build teamwork and connection.
🎭 The Mask Experience: Create a personal “mask” to explore what you show the world—and what you keep inside.
🗣️ Inspiration Circle: Hear from mentors and peers about courage, brotherhood, and authenticity.
🤝 Small Group Conversations: Real talk about life, stress, and how to show up for each other.
🍕 Food & Friendship: Wrap up with pizza, laughter, and next steps for staying connected.


Led by Trusted Facilitators

Hosted by the Ryan Bartel Foundation team—Lacey and Gerry—with facilitator Dave, supported by dedicated volunteers and mentors from our community.


Give Your Son the Space to Be Real

It’s not therapy. It’s not a lecture. It’s a movement—where young men can be active, expressive, and seen for who they really are.

Waiver Statement:

Waiver & Parent/Guardian Permission

The FORT and the FORT Teen Hangout are intended to be all-inclusive spaces for teens to be their authentic selves. The Ryan Bartel Foundation will make every effort to facilitate participant needs without compromising workshop integrity and provided it is within our means to do so.  Participants are expected to be able to navigate the programs independently. Guardians are asked to assess participants’ abilities to engage fully both physically and cognitively in the FORT and the chosen workshops. It is the guardian’s responsibility to reach out to Ryan Bartel Foundation staff to discuss any special needs that may impact participation and ability to engage without becoming a distraction or danger to self or others.

Expectations of Conduct:  The Staff and agents of the Ryan Bartel Foundation make every effort to ensure that all participants have an opportunity to experience the strategies and techniques made available to them in their workshops. They are under obligation to ensure the reasonable safety of all participants and in turn, participants are expected to behave in a manner that is respectful of workshop leaders, volunteers and their peers. 

Possible Risks and Discomforts:  The FORT and FORT Teen Hangout experience are designed to have MANY therapeutic type benefits, however, it is NOT intended to be a therapy group nor a time of sharing traumatic stories. It is NOT a replacement for therapeutic care.  Specific and monitored discussions may take place during workshops related to issues faced by many young people and the positive strategies that can be used to overcome such challenges.  Should any discussions upset a participant or if a student needs support during those sessions, trained adults are available to assist.  

Confidentiality:  We will remind all participants that any personal stories shared should remain with the group.  If any information is shared that suggests a particular individual is at risk for hurting themselves or others, that information will be reported to the parent or guardian.

Teen Code of Conduct:

  • Teens will engage in program activities and discussions, contributing ideas and perspectives.

  • Teens will treat program organizers, facilitators, and staff with respect.

  • Teens will listen attentively to instructions given by program leaders and follow them.

  • Teens will cooperate with fellow participants, fostering a positive and supportive environment for everyone.

  • Teens will take care of program facilities, equipment, and materials, using them responsibly and returning them in good condition.

  • Teens will approach new experiences and ideas with an open mind, embracing opportunities for learning and growth.

  • Teens will respect the privacy of fellow participants and refrain from sharing personal information.

  • Teens will handle disagreements or conflicts calmly and respectfully, seeking resolution through constructive communication.

I have read (or had read to me) the contents of this waiver/permission form and been given the opportunity to ask questions and to receive answers.  I hereby release and discharge The Ryan Bartel Foundation and its directors, officers, employees, affiliates, members, agents, volunteers and representatives, of and from any and all liability for any claims, demands, losses or damages, incurred by me or my child in connection with any aspect of this program. 

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