1. The Asset Approach 40 Developmental Assets for Youth

2. 2 40 Developmental Assets What are Developmental Assets? They are 40 positive experiences and qualities that have the power to improve the lives of children and youth These assets were created by the Search Institute (www.search-institute.org) www.search-institute.org Handouts

3. The Asset Building Difference From Young People’s Problems Professionals’ Work Young people absorbing resources Programs Troubled Young People Accountable only for own behaviour Incidental Asset Building Blaming Others To Young People’s Strengths Everyone’s Work Young People as Resources Relationships All Young People Accountable as well for other adults’ behaviour Intentional Asset Building Claiming Responsibility

4. Asset Categories The first four asset categories focus on external structures, relationships, and activities that create a positive environment for young people: –Support –Empowerment –Boundaries and Expectations –Constructive Use of Time

5. Asset Categories Support –Young people need to be surrounded by people who love, care for, appreciate, and accept them Empowerment –Young people need to feel valued and valuable. This happens when youth feel safe and respected.

6. Asset Categories Boundaries and Expectations –Young people need clear rules, consistent consequences for breaking rules, and encouragement to do their best Constructive Use of Time –Young people need opportunities-outside of school- to learn and develop new skills and interests with other youth and adults

7. Asset Categories The second four categories reflect internal values, skills, and beliefs that young people also need to fully engage with and function in the world around them: –Commitment to Learning –Positive Values –Social Competencies –Positive Identity

8. Asset Categories Commitment to Learning –Young people need a sense of the lasting importance of learning and a belief in their own abilities Positive Values –Young people need to develop strong guiding values or principles to help them make healthy life choices

9. Asset Categories Social Competencies –Young people need the skills to interact effectively with others, to make difficult decisions, and to cope with new situations Positive Identity –Young people need to believe in their own self-worth and to feel that they have control over the things that happen to them

10. Grading Grown-Ups ActionsBelieve Do it Gap Important (%) (%) (in % pts) _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Encourage success in school 90 69 21 Expect parents to set boundaries 84 42 42 Teach shared values 80 45 35 Teach respect for cultural differences 77 36 31 Guide decision making 76 41 35 Have meaningful conversations 75 34 41 Give financial guidance 75 36 39 Discuss personal values 73 37 36 Expect respect for adults 68 67 1

11. 11 Call to Action!

12. Questions? Comments? THANK YOU!