EDITOR: Young people growing up today are confronted with a
myriad of choices. As adults, we can help create a strong web of
support that will enable young people to learn positive values and
make wise choices.
EDITOR:
Young people growing up today are confronted with a myriad of choices. As adults, we can help create a strong web of support that will enable young people to learn positive values and make wise choices.
Promoting positive relationships between adults and youth is the focus of Morgan Hill YES (Youth Empowered for Success) and Project Cornerstone, a countywide initiative working to ensure children and youth grow up with the developmental building blocks – or assets – they need to succeed. The developmental assets are made up of the supportive relationships, meaningful opportunities, and positive values that help young people become caring, confident and responsible.
Key to building assets in children and youth is forming positive relationships with them. Too many of today’s youth know all the super heroes on TV, but don’t know the neighbors next door. As our society becomes more and more organized around services rather than community, much of the care of today’s youth has been turned over to professionals. Many people no longer feel comfortable interacting with and helping to guide youth.
Asset building has given communities across Santa Clara County a framework from which to reclaim a spirit of participation and cooperation. In the City of Morgan Hill, the School District, city government and YES are working together to focus on positive youth development. Through the help of Councilman Steve Tate and Tom Kinoshita, president of the Morgan Hill School District are currently developing an Asset Leadership Conference for August to focus on creating a Caring School Climate. The collaboration will help open doors to future endeavors.
To find out more about Developmental Assets please visit Project Cornerstone’s website at www.projectcornerstone.org or 408-351-6482.
Noella Tabladillo,
Communications director,
Project Cornerstone
