Connections - Strengthening Relationships

Nicholas Bertocci, Student, Deep Run

The Horizon Foundation has a long-term commitment to increase the resilience of children and adolescents. This commitment is expressed in the form of a path breaking project called Connections.

Connections harnesses the Developmental Asset model that was created and perfected by Minneapolis-based Search Institute, a national organization having over 40 years experience in implementing this approach to successful youth development. To date, this model has been evaluated across the country in research involving over 1 million children and adolescents. Utilizing this developmental model, the Foundation this year established three-year pilot programs at Deep Run Elementary, Burleigh Manor Middle and Reservoir High Schools.

Concurrently, the Search Institute and the Foundation began preliminary discussions which have led to the creation of a partnership relationship between the two organizations. After an intense first phase of joint planning, the resulting plan will be designed to address the developmental needs of a broad spectrum of school age youth in Howard County. As currently envisioned, the scope of this plan is likely to involve the most comprehensive application of asset development techniques undertaken in a community-wide partnership anywhere in the United States.

The Developmental Asset model is a positive, strength-based approach that supports a community's engagement in the healthy development of youth. It incorporates 40 factors, or "assets," that are critical for young people's successful growth and development. And it includes proven ways to mobilize parents, businesses, faith-based organizations and schools to work together to build these assets - which amplify and sustain young people's growth over time.

As 2002 drew to a close, the Foundation was pleased with the progress at the three pilot schools.

At Burleigh Manor Middle, principal Barbara Hoffman said, "A recurring theme of this project has been building leadership opportunities for both the staff and students. Our commitment to developing leaders who have a voice and the opportunity to make changes within the school is helping to create a healthier and more productive environment."

One way that Burleigh Manor is utilizing asset-building techniques is the formation of special advisory groups. Each group provides students with a caring adult and a supportive peer group. Daily lessons focus on interpersonal and decision-making skills, often using asset development. "We believe our students can learn to make choices based on what is right rather than what is easy, and come away with the conviction that one person can truly make a difference," Hoffman says.

A second tool has been Assets In Motion (AIM): AIM uses developmental assets to bring focus to the problems children face in today's society. For instance, it helps students prevent bullying by reinforcing personal character-building and the development of positive solutions.

As part of the pilot, the school's Student Council re-oriented itself to build community spirit and teach the rights and responsibilities of citizens living in a democracy. Through the Council, students are now empowered to become more active in school and community service, student advocacy and more.

Finally, the Burleigh Manor Middle School Music Parents program demonstrates character-building traits through advocacy, attention and volunteerism. Hoffman says that, in its entirety, the project "intentionally develops assets in our students and in ourselves. We are the students' role models. Our shared vision (the staff, students and parents) is to encourage and sustain a school culture that supports and respects the diverse needs of lifelong learners in a safe and nurturing academic community. We educate the whole child physically, socially, emotionally, academically and ethically."