The coalition engages youth and adults to work together in creating opportunities for youth to develop healthy habits, gain skills and knowledge and support positive, healthy life choices. After looking at all of the information collected, we identified these issues young people face, as well as what youth need to grow and thrive in South Sacramento:
_Youth and adults in the community report stro
ng concerns about physical safety.
_Students express concerns about physical safety in their schools and neighborhoods.
_Youth recognize that their emotional needs may best be served through more extensive mental health resources.
_Youth find meaningful relationships with adults and peers outside the home in structured activities, especially as they grow older.
_Youth seek meaningful youth membership and leadership opportunities.
_Most youth list barriers hindering access to activities.
_Youth would like assistance in job seeking and work readiness programs.
_Few youth currently participate in arts, either at school or in the community. GOALS OF THE SSCFL
_To establish and strengthen collaboration among representatives of the community
_To reduce substance abuse among youth and over a period of time among adults, by addressing factors in the community that serve to increase the risk of substance abuse, and address protective factors. The following are some key strategies to reach these goals:
_Increase Youth Safety. We will increase the physical and emotional safety of youth in South Sacramento by establishing, enhancing and expanding proven peer mediation programs in area schools. Students learn to problem solve, negotiate and mediate peer conflicts. Through peaceful conflict resolution, we expect to see a reduction in youth-related violence and an increased sense of safety for youth in the community.
_Support Youth Opportunities. We will increase the quantity, quality and access to art, job and mentoring opportunities for our youth, so they will be able to develop and showcase their skills and talents.
_Support Policy Change. We will build relationships with key community leaders, organizations and decision makers, resulting in positive changes to youth policy issues.
