Youth Development Program
A hands-on learning program for youth, ages 5-18
NATHA's youth development program (YDP) promotes hands-on learning and is based on parent and volunteer participation. All youth from kindergarten through 12th grade residing in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre are eligible to participate.
With many different activities to choose from, the YDP's common theme is youth learning and growing in citizenship, leadership and life skills. The program seeks to develop the whole child, providing them with help and encouragement to do well in school.
YDP continually seeks ways to expand children's understanding of the world and how they can positively affect it.
Here are the benefits reaped from YDP participants:
- Improved school attendance rates
- Improved grades
- Increased social skills, sense of responsibility and teamwork
- Improved relations with other ethnic and racial groups
- Growth in self-esteem
- Knowledge of the larger world and of personal options
- Pride in the community
- Reduction in criminal or delinquent activities
- Development of employable skills and increased awareness of educational and employment possibiliites
- Increased community activism
The youth development program focuses on reinforcing school education. Tutoring and projects map to California and Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) education standards. This helps children succeed in school and builds self-esteem. By challenging students to explore new subjects, try new activities and share their findings with other students and parents, they build invaluable skills: Skills in research, teamwork, writing and oral presentation.
Employable skills are developed further through our many community service projects. There are opportunities to mentor younger students, work with the Junior Master Gardeners or be part of the DigiCrew. These activities build a sense of responsibility and develop strong skills that can be applied in the workforce.
Nutrition is also emphasized in the program. Nutritious snacks, physical activity and health education, including information about alcohol and tobacco, contribute to improved health. Improved health positively affects school attendance, participation and outcomes. It sets the stage for a lifetime of healthful habits.