Often we hear the phrase, “Young people are our future” which, through frequent usage has become cliché. However, it is accurate. Yes young people will be the political, social and economic leaders of tomorrow. our model of youth development builds upon this recognition and the valuable roles young people will play as well as the contributions they will make to society. it is in this light that we offer courses to youth service workers, who work with adolescents in any capacity. these courses will help them, encourage civic participation and social engagement among young people, and create curricula, initiatives, and programs that afford young people an outlet to develop and to express their own ideas and perspectives. established with a clear focus on youth development, these courses, will provide training of the highest caliber to all youth work professionals, including teachers, social workers, community activists, and faith-based youth workers. the courses will range from eight-hour days to sixweek programs. the courses will provide both a conceptual and functional framework that will empower and inspire workers in the field of youth development.

Curriculum

Course i: introduction to Youth development Medgar evers College has created a unique collaborative core curriculum for youth workers, who work with adolescents in any capacity. the College will draw upon the resources and intelligence of faculty and staff to effectively impart their knowledge and experiences about the vast field of youth development. The course examines the history of this field and its present trajectory. the course takes an interdisciplinary approach, examining psychology, sociology, anthropology, and theology, and the roles each play in youth development.

Course II: Conflict Resolution Successful conflict resolution occurs by listening to and providing opportunities to meet each side’s needs and adequately addressing their interests. Conflict resolution is a deliberate personal, social and organizational tool. Young people must be taught that life isn’t always a zero-sum game. they can all be winners. this course focuses on conflict resolution, with an emphasis on youth conflicts.

Course iii: Character Building this course focuses on character building for young people, through the encouragement of, academic success, morals, ethics, and values.

Course iV: successful strategies for navigating College Participants will explore topics aimed at improving academic skills such as writing, test taking, study techniques, note taking and problem solving.

Course V: Critical Writing and thinking skills the famous black novelist and writer, James Baldwin, said, “Writing is thinking.” Participants through expansive reading and writing, strengthening grammar, punctuation and spelling skills. Participants will also learn the building blocks of both creative and technical writing.

Course Vi: Leadership development/skills Leadership is a function not just a position. Leadership is the ability to influence, motivate, and set an example for people to pursue an objective or vision. the course examines the psychology of leadership and leadership styles.