Posi Power Program
Posi-power promotes the importance of the basic supports in everyday life that youth need to grow up to be contributing members of society. These full size posters and postcards illustrate the developmental ‘nutrients’ youth require in their formative years. These nutrients, known as the 40 Developmental Assets are universally recognized as critical factors for positive youth development.
The posi-curve symbolizes the positivity of youth and acts as a reminder of the supports youth need to be healthy, caring and responsible people.
"When youth are supported in ways that influence the development of any of the 40 Developmental Assets, we all advance as a livable community and in doing so become agents for transforming society". - Wayne Yee, Advisor Youth Services, City of Richmond.
The posi-pin are a hip fashion accessory for youth to wear or to give to adults as a way to say "Thank You". The act of giving thanks further reinforces asset-based values such as respect. The only way for an adult to receive a pin is to be given one by a youth!
The “+POS” Positive Ticket initiative with RCMP has garnered international attention and represents a key piece in the RCMP’s Strategic Plan. This simple idea where Police catch kids doing good things provide an powerful gateway to develop positive relationships between police and youth, often having a profound effect on the youth and officer!
The Street Team
A Street Team, comprised of Richmond youth, has been created to take the messages of supporting youth into the community. These team members deliver key messages from youth's perspective to further promote Asset building. Look for Street Team member roving the community at festivals and special events year round.
The Street Team asked youth to describe their passion and the person that helped them discover it. We also asked grown ups how they support youth:
Name: Jennifer D Age: 9
"Dancing: Cliff inspired me to dance with passion. Makes me open my heart."
Name: Janice R Age: 65
"Be available to listen respectfully to them at all times and hear their concerns. Likewise that they respect us and include us in their plans for their future education etc. and trust us that we have years of experience (wisdom) to share with them."
Name: Marissa H Age: 12
"When I was little I really wanted to play soccer but I was extremely scared of getting hit. My dad worked with me for years, knowing that it was something important to me."
Name: Amanda S Age: 26
"I spend time with my nephew and nieces outdoors playing games and showing them how to play different sports."
