Explores literacy performances as a way for students to empower themselves and effect social change. Describes a literacy group called Story Time in a youth-run center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youths. Concludes that literacy performances are a way into opportunities for social change for any marginalized reader and…

Explicates development, structure, and functions of Hope Center Wilderness Camp (HCWC). Analyzes qualitative relations among theoretical principles on which the HCWC programs are based to the high success rate of 85 percent of campers who complete the camp's program and do not recidivate within six months after being released. (Author/NB)

Reviews youth employment and training programs since 1962. Concludes that successful programs share the following characteristics: (1) a focus on chronic unemployment; (2) comprehensive remedial programs and human services; (3) early intervention; and (4) connections to mainstream institutions. (FMW)

A study examined the extent to which the Wisconsin Youth Reentry Specialist (YRS) program was effective in the transition of youth with handicapping conditions from an institutional school into special education programs. Results showed that the YRS position increased the likelihood for a successful transition. (Author/JOW)

Describes the Environmental Vision Exchange (EVE) program, which offers youth an opportunity to speak out on the environment, use high-tech video equipment, and exchange ideas with another community. In the process of expressing their views, youth are encouraged to build leadership skills. (LZ)

Summarizes findings from "The Troubled Journey: A Portrait of 6th-12th Grade Youth," a study of society's role in youth development. Highlights missing supports, destructive influences, at-risk behaviors, and promising strategies (e.g., reduce deficits/increase assets, strengthen youth-oriented institutions, involve youth in caring for others,…

Some inner-city youth have "ducked the bullet" and built hope through participation in neighborhood-based organizations that offer safety, support, guidance, companionship, and opportunities for growth and engagement. All 60 urban sanctuaries examined in 3 metropolitan areas shared common features: dynamic adult leadership, family-like…

Empowerment as social action addresses lack of control by enhancing participation in community action. An alcohol and substance abuse prevention program for New Mexico adolescents used Freire's problem posing and critical thinking philosophy and methods to empower young people to change their health behavior. (SK)

Describes the SerVermont initiative, an innovative volunteer program for high school students supported neither by state legislation nor public funds. It came into being through a nationally recognized service-learning expert's willingness to work closely with the governor, the state education commissioner, superintendents, and community agencies…

Discusses youth theater in India, especially the programs for children in slum colonies and schools, as well as those for elitist children. Describes a "caravan" of 100-200 artists, educators, children, and book vendors who encourage young people to ask questions and read books. Includes an account of teacher workshops and an informal…

Presents findings from a qualitative study exploring young people's perceptions about the provision of a youth-counseling service. Study reveals factors that hinder willingness to seek counseling and factors that encourage young people to make use of counseling. (Author/GCP)

Presents an exclusive interview with Karl Dennis, one of the pioneers of the wraparound approach to providing youth and family services, who shares his insights on how this system of unconditional care can help build resilient families and communities. (Author/GCP)

Describes the new archaeology merit badge of the Boy Scouts of America. Discusses the requirement that scouts recruit a "counselor" who is a hobbyist or working archaeologist, and outlines the duties and ethical responsibilities of such mentors. Includes the scout's requirements for earning the badge. (SV)

The Food Project brings together Boston-area youth to grow and distribute food for the hungry and in the process, develop leadership and job skills. Summer crew workers (high school students) grow vegetables, distribute them to food pantries, and sell them at farmer's markets. Crew leaders learn more about sustainable agriculture and hone…

The Rural Elderly Enhancement Project, in which a nursing school development a model of community participation and involvement, was evaluated through interviews with 73 community members. Many projects designed to foster community competence in elder care and youth/school-based health have been sustained. (SK)