OAKLEY YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

Issue Area:  YOUTH AND TRUST

The City of Oakley, California, is bringing together its young people, parents, schools, businesses, faith communities, nonprofits, sports leagues, and others to ensure middle- and high-schoolers have every chance to develop the traits essential for successful living. With Vesper Society funding, Oakley’s Recreation Division has created a Youth Master Plan of services and programs that build ethical character and a sense of belonging, competency, and worth.

In 2006, the program launched the Oakley Youth Advisory Council to advise city leaders on policy and plan activities, surveyed middle- and high school students to get their input for the Youth Master Plan, and established the Community Advisory Committee to review the program’s progress and strategize next steps.

In 2007, the project enrolled youth, city, school and business leaders in a survey process that assesses youth behaviors and attitudes, using the resources of the widely respected Search Institute. The results showed the strength of Oakley’s youth assets and point to opportunities to cultivate positive behaviors.

In 2008, more than 700 youth participated in city-sponsored activities. Oakley held a youth summit, and ten teens learned valuable leadership skills as members of the Oakley Youth Advisory Council.

In 2009, the Youth Master Plan was presented and accepted by the Oakley City Council. The Oakley Youth Advisory Council has grown and its members are students from middle and high schools in the district.

For additional information contact .

January 2010