Youth Insights

Young people thrive when they have solid uplifting connections in their lives!

Studies have actually shown that when young people have these strong bonds across different areas of their lives, it's like fertilizer for their growth. When they have strong connections, they tend to:

be more pumped about hitting the books.
be better at handling those emotional rollercoasters.
step up to the plate with a sense of ownership.
be less likely to dabble in risky stuff.

It's like these relationships act as a safety net, guiding them towards all the good stuff life has to offer.

Our Mission

Components of a Positive Relationship

You feel safe and comfortable;
You are listened to;
Your opinions are valued;
You are supported in what you want to do in life;
You and your family are respected;
You are treated as an equal;
You are accepted for who you are;
You are trusted;
You enjoy doing activities together.

What Are DEVELOPMENTAL Assets?

Developmental Assets are 40 opportunities, skills, relationships, values and self-perceptions that all young people need to succeed. The Developmental Asset Framework was created by the Search Institute, a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization whose mission is to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to promote healthy children, youth, and communities. The Framework is a research-based tool that encourages all individuals to make a difference.

Supporting environments where assets can be built is one of the most important things we can do in the healthy development of young people.

Here are a few principles that will help guide you in your efforts:

Everyone can build assets.

Building assets isn't just about great families or schools or neighbourhoods. It requires consistent messages across a community.

It's an ongoing process.

Building assets starts when a child is born and continues through high school and beyond.

All young people need assets.

While it is crucial to pay special attention to youth who struggle - economically, emotionally, or otherwise - nearly all young people need more assets than they have.

Consistency is important.

It is important for families, schools, communities, the media, and others to give all young people consistent and similar messages about what is important and what is expected of them.