The youth of our community are our future.  The Search Institute has identified 40 assets as a barometer for how young people will fare in adulthood.  Research has shown the more assets a child has, the more likely the youth will make responsible lifestyle choices, do well in school, and avoid risk-taking behaviors; the fewer the assets, the more likely a young person might engage in risky behavior, do poorly in school, and abuse drugs.  Everyone can build assets in youth.  Partners in Education in the Greater Green Bay area sponsors workshops for asset training and encourages everyone to be an asset builder.

Parental involvement is key to asset development, and Partners in Education works to engage students, recognize parents, employers, and educators who focus upon family-friendly ideals and youth development.  To be an asset builder means connecting with kids.  Adults can help build assets for our youth by:

          encouraging success in school,
          expecting parents to set boundaries,
          teaching shared values,
          teaching respect for cultural differences,
          guiding decision making,
          giving financial guidance,
          having meaningful conversations,
          discussing personal values, and
          expecting respect for adults.

For more information about youth asset development, call Rebecca Deschane, 920-437-8704, Ext. 24, or e-mail rdeschane@titletown.org.