 |
Why We're Needed
More than 30 years of youth development research is identifying key factors
that help young people prepare for success in family life, social relationships, economic
self-sufficiency and civic life.
At the same time, researchers and demographers, as well as concerned parents, educators and youth
work practitioners, have good reason to be concerned about the struggles faced by many of today's
parents, families and schools — the very places that once contributed so wholesomely to the
development of young people.
To address this urgent need, Wyman is preparing young people for success in three critical areas
of life: healthy family and social relationships; economic self-sufficiency; and community
involvement. We're accomplishing this by teaching youth to be productive in school and work; to
connect to community and family; and to be able to navigate in diverse environments and make
healthy choices.
The Wyman Teen Leadership Program specifically engages teens because we know that, across the country, there is a
tremendous gap in services and developmental programs for young people ages 13 to 18. Our approach
is unique because it engages youth in a comprehensive developmental program for five years, from
eighth grade throughout high school.
Wyman's philosophy, grounded in the most current national research, is that keeping young people
"problem free*" is simply not enough. We must help them be "fully prepared*" to lead successful
lives and build strong communities.
Read about our Youth Development Programs for further details.
* Karen Pittman, Executive Director of the Forum for Youth Investment
 |
|
