At a time when many people feel overwhelmed by the problems and challenges facing children and adolescents, communities across the country are discovering new energy in working together toward a positive vision for young people. High school students read books on Saturday mornings to younger children at the public library. Neighbors get together for neighborhood potlucks. Community members look adolescents in the eye and smile as they pass on the street or in the mall. Older adults partner with parents to sponsor a Scout Troop.
Neighbors learn the names, ages and birthdays of every child in their neighborhood.
Seniors visit local schools weekly during the lunch hour, and kids can talk to them about anything they want to talk about. Students staff a phone line that connects young people to youth programs so that they know about and are involved in creating their own opportunities for growth and caring. Does not duplicate services that are already available in the community. Have innovative, creative and nontraditional characteristics. Can be completed in one year or has a plan to fund the project after the initial year.