Involve members of the community as instructors, resource people and in governance roles to ensure the program is anchored in the community. Keep your groups small so that youth get individualized attention. Analyze your physical facilities. Think purposively about seating arrangements. These may be financial but they can also be incentives that are non-material.
Recognition is a key ingredient in keeping staff motivated and involved.
Provide ways for your staff to interact informally outside of the program in ways that are fun. Hire staff who develop trust easily and who are trust worthy. Hire staff who know how to deal with the unexpected and can be flexible. Train your staff to be advocates for youth and take a prominent role in the community in advocating for the rights of young people. Conduct in-service training for staff in youth development principles and strategies to improve their skill base.