Forging a New Path, 2002

• NCJ Number: 194983
• Date Published: March 2002
• Length: 219 pages
• Contract Number(s): C-OPC-18430
• Sponsoring Agency: Boys and Girls Clubs of America; US Dept of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Native American Programs
• Corporate Author: Johnson, Bassin, and Shaw, (JBS) Inc
• Sale Source: US Dept of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Native American Programs
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Guideline
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Video included

Annotation

This guide provides the Boys & Girls Clubs’ prevention model used in Indian Country to promote education, healthy lifestyles, cultural enrichment, and leadership development. The documentary describes the success of six Native American Boys and Girls Clubs.

Abstract

There are nearly 120 Clubs now serving youth in Indian Country. A network of Clubs has been set up, with Native American leaders sharing ideas and experiences, providing training for teams of youth and adults, calling up the Internet for information on what other tribes are doing, and gathering for intertribal tournaments and events. The young people in Indian Country are growing in personal skills and increasing their knowledge and pride about their cultural heritage and traditions. Clubs also provide positive outlets and programs to prevent high-risk behavior. On one reservation juvenile alcohol arrests have declined considerably since the Boys & Girls Club opened. Native American children can be placed at risk because of a rapidly changing society and a decreasing sense of community. The prime promoters of the Clubs in Indian Country have been members of Tribal Councils, staff of tribally designated housing entities, and leaders in their tribes and communities. Clubs usually start with one or two individuals who initiate the idea and then interest others in the program. The key task areas for starting and operating a Club are establishing Club structures, setting up the Club, and operating the Club. Establishing Club structures includes developing a relationship with the Boys & Girls Club of America, gaining charter membership, and setting up governing structures. Setting up the Club includes planning and maintaining a facility, collaboration with the community, staff resources, and Club management. Operating the Club includes membership recruitment and retention, selecting and creating programs, maintaining safety and security, and carrying out marketing and public relations efforts. Appendix