As a guidebook, there are pages which consist of lists of ideas and/or statements which have been gathered and tested in various youth leadership programs. There are also pages which consist of provocative questions to consider when establishing a program or evaluating existing efforts. The most effective use of this book is using it with groups of people (adults and youth) rather than having only one person design a program in a vacuum.
Throughout the book are Notes pages so that you can jot ideas and issues to consider. You are strongly encouraged to use this book as you would a notebook...writing on the pages and keeping track of ideas. Often when undertaking a project -- and establishing a strong youth leadership program is a project -- we write our thoughts down or talk about them with others, but neglect to take action because the ideas somehow get lost. Using this book to gather all of the issues into one place can assist with streamlining your efforts.
There is ample commentary which could accompany each page and activity in the book, which has not been included so that each program can use the information as it relates to specific efforts. Some pages may be interpreted slightly different by an individual working in a school-based setting versus one in a community-based setting. Ultimately, the book is designed to prompt and challenge you to evaluate all aspects of preparing the youth with whom you work, as well as provide you with ample resources and ideas for successful implementation.
Includes leadership activities and contact information for numerous organizations/programs.
