A LOT!!!

Any adult can…

1)       Build at least one sustained, caring relationship with a youth.

2)       Invite a young person, who may be without positive role models to participate in some of your own family’s routines.

3)       Provide transportation to young people who would not otherwise be able to participate in community youth activities.

4)       Speak to youth when you see them.  Get to know their names and what interests them.

5)       Send a note or card of encouragement to a young person you know, who is struggling with a particular issue or situation.

6)       Financially and personally support community organizations that provide programs and special activities for young people.

7)       Volunteer as a tutor, mentor, or youth leader at a school, church, or community youth program.

Parents can…

8)       Establish family rules with youth, enforce them consistently, and be clear on the consequences.

9)       Regularly re-negotiate family rules with teenagers.  Ask them for their input and agreement.

10)   Show love and support of your children with smiles, hugs, praises, play, encouragement, involvement, and apologies.

11)   Talk to your children about their feeling, concerns, priorities, wishes, and goals…when you are not angry with them.

12)   Contact your children’s teachers a minimum of two to three times a month to ask about their progress.

13)   Give your children the opportunity to help others who may be less fortunate than themselves, who may be sick, or who may need some type of support.

14)   Eat at least one meal together daily, as a family.  Talk about what’s going on in each other’s lives.

Community and school members can…

15)   Sponsor or support positive youth programs and activities.

16)   Provide mentors, internships, career days, part-time jobs, and other leadership opportunities.

17)   Include asset-building information in your publications and other materials for distribution.

18)   Make it a priority to provide caring environments for all students.

19)   Expect all young people to act responsibly.

20)   Organize “Support Teams” to assist children and their families.

21)   Develop and support high stands throughout the community.

The media can…

22)   Provide on-going PSA’s, special feature new stories, and promotions, highlighting strategies to help youth succeed.

 

Let’s work together to give youth a positive community to live in!!!