For the children: youth development is a vital need for our country … and our profession - NRPA Perspectives - National Recreation and Parks Association

Parks & Recreation, Jan, 2003 by Jonathan Korfhage

We need to emphasize efforts to create positive opportunities to develop the potential of all our youth. Although it's important to help "problem youth," this service can't be the entirety of our work. We need to nurture all Americans under the age of 20, even those who will never land in juvenile court, or otherwise be a statistic in the at-risk youth tallies. Our programs should help youth develop the values, skills, competencies and self-confidence necessary to be successful adults.

Most recreation leaders' spirits are motivated by the task and a hope to improve the quality of life for their constituents. Here are some examples of what a youth recreation leader can do to have a permanent, positive influence on youths.

* Never underestimate the enormous values of socialization through recreation programs. Create a sense of community for young people. Assess their interests and needs and create programs for them that they need. Define and connect similarities for those in these communities. Look for ways to expand horizons and share ownership with the group. Provide tokens of ownership--shirts, badges, membership cards, etc. Plan for longevity: It takes time for relationships and activities to become effective.

* Empower young people. Give them leadership roles. Let them make decisions in areas that affect them. Create a structure that allows them to belong and feel needed. Provide role models. Young people need to have opportunities to relate to adults. Mentoring programs can make a measurable difference.

* Teach them about freedom and give them hope for the future. Provide opportunities for discussion and debate. Encourage honesty. Expose them to ideas, not just games.

* Identify resources to help young people learn how to obtain the basic necessities of life.

* Organize job skill, fitness and nutrition programs.

* Create a volunteer program that benefits both youth and others. Teach them to be leaders and be resourceful and creative.

* Create places for young people to be themselves.

* Provide meaningful alternatives to the negative aspects of television and the Internet.

* Find ways to bring families and generations together.

* Promote cultural diversity.

* Educate young people about the dangers of drugs, sharing needles, alcohol and unprotected sex.

* Create opportunities for young people to experience safe adventures.

* Enlighten youths about the need to be environment stewards who support conservation and sustainability.

NRPA provides critical services to those of us who are involved with providing programs for young people. These services include:

* Information on obtaining financial resources.

* Idea sharing on programs and services.

* Networking opportunities with other youth-serving personnel.

* Research on methodology.

* Political advocacy.

* Recognizing excellence.

* Partnership brokerage.

* Training programs and materials.

* Sponsoring special events that call attention to problems and educate young people.

Nearly half of the world's population is under the age of 20, and 1.5 billion children will be born in the next decade. These are the people who will soon be leading the world. Through efforts such as the National Youth Congress Program, NRPA is working to help this deluge of youths have a positive upbringing. (See pp. 52-57 of this issue of Parks & Recreation for more on the program and on federal funding available to support it.) NRPA programs and services support your efforts to enhance the youth in your community.