NCJ Number
175231
Date Published
1997
Length
98 pages
Annotation
The Community Change for Youth Development (CCYD) demonstration program represents an effort to improve the lives and future prospects of young people who live in poor areas.
Abstract
The program recognizes the need to meet young people's developmental needs and the importance of community involvement. The CCYD framework focuses on increasing the number of caring adults in young people's lives, increasing the number of positive experiences available during non-school hours, ensuring a strong connection between work and learning, providing special support through critical transitions, and involving young people in program activities. The CCYD program was evaluated at sites in Florida, Georgia, and Texas. It was found that CCYD sites embraced resident governance, the involvement of nontraditional institutions, and outreach as key strategies for implementing and sustaining CCYD. The effectiveness of local CCYD strategies and decisions rested primarily on the soundness and effectiveness of local lead agencies. Community involvement in CCYD was challenging, although experienced program staff were able to overcome some obstacles. The author concludes it is possible for lead agencies and residents in neighborhoods to work through an effective community planning process in a relatively short period of time. Appendixes contain additional information on CCYD planning processes and outcomes. 2 tables and 1 figure