Kelly Curtis
Search Institute Press
154 pages. $14.95
“Empowerment isn’t a program, it’s a way of thinking,” declares Curtis, whose guide for youth workers and leaders of all ages demonstrates how to infuse youth involvement into all kinds of community organizations.
Chapters match the four empowerment assets within Search Institute’s Framework of 40 Developmental Assets for Adolescents. The chapter, “When a Community Values Youth,” cites a survey in which only 21 percent of adults are confident that youth could represent their communities or perform community service. Noting that minds are changed when people see teenagers lead with adults, the author presents six activities that prepare adults and youth to work together.
“Treating Youth as Valued Resources” presents youth-centered community projects. “Serving the Needs of Others” shows how service projects motivate young people. “Ensuring a Safe World for Young People” suggests ways for youths to become stakeholders in their own safety.
Inspiring examples of youth empowerment projects include a 13-year-old Nevada girl’s booklets for foster children and a California youth group’s creation of a teen center. With wise encouragement, valuable tips and 19 training activities, this handbook is a gold mine for youth workers and youth advocates. (800) 888-4741, http://www.ipgbook.com.
