The Strong Kids for Strong Communities initiative was started by representatives from several youth-serving organizations in Montgomery County who saw the need to create a community vision for youth development.  After months of researching various ideas, several community leaders were approached and committed to supporting the promotion of Asset Development. 

A community forum on March 31, 2004, educated more than 120 participants about the Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets.  Examples of successful integration of the Asset Development philosophy were described by Tim Duffey from Search Institute (developers of the framework); Judge Charles Pratt from Allen County Juvenile Court in Ft. Wayne, Indiana; and Zac Sideras, Kettering Youth Council President.  The forum was co-sponsored and hosted by Marc Levy, President of the United Way of the Greater Dayton Area; Ned Sifferlen, Chairperson of the Montgomery County Family & Children First Council; and Don Thompson, Chairperson of the Montgomery County Workforce Policy Board Youth Council.

At the conclusion of the event, more than 30 people made a commitment to help promote Asset Development in the community.  Many of these individuals and a number of other people have become part of a coalition that meets monthly to identify best practices and new ideas for incorporating the Asset Development philosophy into their services.  Presentations at these meetings are helping to raise awareness of local asset resources and provide specific examples of asset development implementation.

Participants want to see young people of all ages experiencing positive relationships with adults, meaningful involvement in their communities, a commitment to learning, and development of positive values and social competencies.  We believe this will happen through: 

·   Mobilization of all sectors of many communities to utilize Asset Development as the basis for interaction with youth and for making decisions on their behalf; and

·         The use of a common language as we work together on behalf of all youth. 

The more individuals and organizations fanning the Asset Development “fire,” the better!  There’s plenty of room for YOU to be part of this dynamic initiative.  For more information, contact any of the following co-coordinators:

Sue Koverman      225-4603 x3048

The Mentoring Collaborative

Beverly Williams Odon                                                         225-3048

United Way of the Greater Dayton Area

Catherine Rauch  225-3123

Miami Valley Teen Coalition