Life Directions - Marion County

Description

The effort is done in three ways which intersect with each other: The Neighborhood Enrichment Program · Brings together peer leaders 18 to 35 years of age from affluent and poverty communities with elders to offer opportunities to awaken a spirituality of excellence in diversity. · Involves young adults (18-35) from community with younger adults (13-17 years old) through service projects and celebrations. · Trains young adults and adults (36+) as "Adult Coaches". · Engages young adults to discuss issues causing violence and reflect on solutions to conflict. The Peer Motivation Program · Operates at McKay and North Salem high schools bringing achieving students together with at-risk students, ages 14-17 years old. · Encourages and motivates young adult students to explore common issues and challenges they confront on a daily basis and then reflect on ways to be responsible for their future. · Begins a process in the schools and matures as it connects with the Neighborhood Enrichment Program's service projects and community events. The Peer Mentor Program · Involves achieving 10 th-11 th graders who completed the Peer Motivation Program. · Prepares trained Peer Mentors to lead After-School Gatherings with 8 th graders at nearby Parrish, Waldo, and Stephens middle schools to prepare them for a positive experience to high school. · Joins Peer Mentors with trained Adult Coaches from both the neighborhood and business communities who offer support, encouragement and guidance. · Connects persons from the neighborhoods: community partners, high school student achievers, at risk 8 th graders, and the families of all participants.