By Beth Olson
How do teens learn to engage and contribute to the world around them? How do they become resilient in the face of adversity?
Relationships. Consistent, meaningful relationships with adults.
And as community leaders, it is our responsibility to understand the research behind relationships that shape young people’s success.
Prosper Waco is partnering with the Search Institute to bring this research to Waco. Beginning this spring, we will host a series of workshops to create a common language around positive youth development.
The Search Institute is an internationally recognized organization with a 60-plus year history researching positive youth development and advancing equity. In 1990, they developed Developmental Assets – positive values, skills, and experiences that help children and teens thrive. More recently, they put together a Developmental Relationships framework – the characteristics and actions that strengthen relationships with and between teens.
Just imagine what we could accomplish if every elected official, school district staffer, nonprofit board member, faith leader, business owner, service provider, and parent used a common language to help young people develop their own identity and commitment to our community.
Introduction to Developmental Relationships
Every adult in Waco plays a role in helping young people navigate adolescence. What does that mean? And how do we get there?
Tuesday, May 10, 10-11:30 p.m.
This is a one-time workshop specifically designed for people who may not work directly with young people but whose decisions, in one way or another, affect the lives of young people. This is perfect for nonprofit board members, senior level staff, business owners, school district staff, and elected officials. (This training is open to anyone. Those working directly with youth will also benefit from this workshop.)
Workshop Series: Intentional Relationships + Inclusive Relationships
This is a two-part series that delves deep into Developmental Relationships research and best practices.
This series is designed specifically for people who work directly with youth; however, anyone is welcome to participate.
Registration is limited to 50 participants. First come, first served.
Part I (Intentional Relationships) is a prerequisite for Part II (Inclusive Relationships). We highly recommend that you take advantage of this opportunity and register for both workshops in the series.
Part 1: Intentional Relationships
Relationships matter. How do we build them effectively with young people?
Tuesday, May 17, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 18, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Part 2: Inclusive Relationships
How much has your organization done to invest in building relationships with all young people you serve?
Monday, May 23, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 24, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Prerequisite: Intentional Relationships
Workshop series is limited to the first 50 registrants.
Beth Olson is director of adolescent health initiatives with Prosper Waco.