Selecting, Implementing and Adapting Youth Empowerment Solutions

Abstract

YES is an evidence-based program that empowers youth to make positive changes in their communities and to work with adults who support their efforts. The goals of the YES program are to: 1) provide youth with opportunities for meaningful involvement in preventing youth violence and creating community change; 2) enhance the ability of adults to support youth in an empowerment framework; and 3) change the social and physical environment to reduce and prevent violence (especially youth violence). The purpose of this guide is to assist organizations and communities in making decisions about selecting, implementing and adapting the Youth Empowerment Solutions (YES) program. It is designed for individuals who are responsible for choosing, supervising and carrying out youth programs. This guide is intended to be used in conjunction with the Youth Empowerment Solutions for Peaceful Communities curriculum, which is available for download through the YES website: http://yes.sph.umich.edu/curriculum/