You, too, can be an Asset Builder for kids

     In January, I had the opportunity to attend a special training workshop that focused on the 40 Developmental Assets, a framework for youth development created by the Search Institute.  Those who have been involved in the mentoring program for a while have probably heard me talk about Assets before.  Essentially, the Developmental Assets are 40 common sense, positive experiences and qualities that help influence the choices young people make and help them become caring, responsible, successful adults.  Helping youth to develop these Assets (a process known as “Asset Building”) begins simply by connecting with a young person in a purposeful way.  It’s not difficult.  In fact, the more I learn about this framework, the more impressed I am in how simple yet effective it can be.

     At the recent Asset workshop, we learned that everyone is an Asset Builder.  To illustrate this point, the presenter shared a true story about an elderly lady who I will refer to as Gladys.  While having her daily coffee with a friend in the front room of her house, Gladys looked out the window and saw something she had never noticed before.  A group of young children were gathering on the street in front of her home to wait for the school bus.  These students gathered there each day, but she had never really noticed them until now.

     One day, Gladys decided that she would make an effort to connect with these children by waiting with them at the bus stop.  After getting permission from the local school principal, Gladys would stand with the children and talk to them as they waited for the bus to arrive.  At first the children were a bit suspicious, but in time they started looking forward to seeing Gladys every day.  They would even express their concern and disappointment on the days she missed.  As news of her effort spread, other residents followed suit and this simple Asset Building approach soon became a community-wide effort.

     My point in sharing this story is that Asset Building is an easy process that starts simply by making an effort to connect with a child.  It’s all about building relationships.

     This year, we will be learning more about how to become an Asset Builder for youth.  At our quarterly mentor trainings, we will explore the idea that everyone is an Asset Builder.  We will also learn how to share the Asset message with others.  As more people learn about Assets, my hope is that we will become an Asset Building community that strives to have an impact on healthy growth and development in young people.

     Stay tuned for future Asset training opportunities.  In the meantime, if you would like to learn more about the 40 Developmental Assets, you can go to www.search-institute.org/assets.