Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES!):
Ages 14 - 18

the art of making friends // the secret of popularity
personal responsibility // the value of service

Both fun and challenging, this 18 hour seminar provides teens with a comprehensive toolbox to both manage their own emotions and stress as well as dynamically navigate through adolescence.  The program broadens youth's vision of the world and provides practical knowledge and skills they need to realize their highest potential. Independent research has also shown that the processes learned on YES! reduce anger violence and depression, as well as improve focus, clarity of mind and concentration.

Main Aspects of the Program:
1) Physical – Dynamic body exercises, yoga and innovative breathing techniques.
2) Mental – Practical knowledge to eliminate counter productive activity and enhance learn ability; Techniques and interactive processes to improve memory, concentration & focus.
3) Social – Experiential processes to develop problem solving strategies and social skills; Interactive games to develop leadership and life skills; Teamwork exercises to teach cooperation and conflict resolution.
4) Emotional – Dynamic group discussions designed to help teens feel at ease in challenging situations, and increase confidence and inner strength to better handle criticism and peer pressure.

Follow-Up: Empowering Students:
Service learning is an integral part of  the YES! program.  Students design and implement their own volunteer project, taking responsibility for themselves and their community. This develops an attitude of service toward others and caring for the planet.  Upon completion of this six-session program, YES! graduates participate in weekly follow-up sessions during which students refresh their understanding of the techniques learned and with the support of adult mentors, implement their service projects. Youth develop leadership skills, strengthen discipline in practicing the relaxation and breathing techniques, complete service projects, and continue to foster human values education.