The Support Assets

Hi All,

I think I will spend this week on more assets ideas. Today we will talk about the Support Assets.

As Search Institute says, " Supportive relationships provide the conduit for all other asset building."

The support assets refer to providing young people with love, affirmation, and acceptance throughout their environment. While parental support is most influential, the combination of support from all aspects of a young person's life is crucial. Simple ways for youth programs to provide support include making youth feel welcome by all adults greeting them, paying close attention to them, and actively listening to them. Youth programs can also involve and coordinate efforts with families and schools.

So what are ways to build support assets?

Notice & welcome every young person.
Appreciate & build on their strengths & postive behaviors.
Listen, listen, listen.
Build supportive relationships through shared activities.
Urge parents to become involved with their youth.
Create ways for community members to get involved with youth.

An example of this last one here at Oasis is taking our shelter youth to the assisted living home every Tuesday night to play bingo. The elderly love the teens and the teens feel their support.

What are ways that you build support with the youth you serve?

LA