Strategies

Match disadvantaged or at-risk youth with volunteer mentors in school or community settings

Establish publicly financed schools that are not subject to many of the regulations that govern traditional public schools, such as staffing, curriculum, and budgeting requirements.

Establish an ongoing relationship between an older youth or young adult and a younger child or adolescent, usually an elementary or middle school student

Detect and intervene in potentially violent situations, educate and mobilize communities, and connect high-risk individuals to services; formerly called Chicago CeaseFire

Offer programs to help individuals without a high school diploma or its equivalent achieve a high school equivalency credential

Establish a relationship between an older adult and a child, adolescent, or college student through social interactions or a variety of educational and art activities

Support outdoor pursuits and adventure-based activities that emphasize inter- and intra-personal growth through overcoming obstacles (e.g., challenge courses, wilderness excursions, etc.)

Create a school culture of high behavioral and academic expectations, with intense tutoring, increased teacher performance feedback, lengthened instruction time, and health care services

Provide short-term employment opportunities for youth, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds

Teach students attitudes, skills, knowledge, and behavior needed to participate in and contribute to a democracy