Orange+Week+7

Consistent with your readings on families, schools, and neighborhoods/communities, I'd like you to consider the following questions:

1. Throughout the semester, we have been talking about youth development from various perspectives, but we have really emphasized the need for a more integrated youth development system that seeks collaboration between various developmental ecologies (individuals, families, neighborhoods, organizations, socio-political-economic systems, etc.). This is, understandably, a daunting task. That said - how might you - as a youth development leader - endeavor to start this process within your own world? How would you (or how DO you) work across various system boundaries to more seamlessly connect them together? Are there examples of such integrated efforts out there in the world of youth development?

2. Think about your area of interest (e.g. schools, juvenile justice, family, parks/recreation, sports coaching, athletic training, community programs). How is the positive youth development perspective best integrated in your world? In other words, if you were to help others in your career-area understand what the positive youth development perspective is and how it should be used in (insert your career area), what would you suggest? (Hint: Your thoughts here can help frame the second final exam question!)

Focus on developing a response based on class readings, personal experiences, and any outside sources that you choose to bring in to the discussion. Acknowledge outside sources at the end of your post, and if you find any direct links to information or sources that support your positions, include these at the end of your post as well. **Post your responses to these questions (initial and followups) by Tuesday, 2/28/12 at 12:00pm to receive full credit.**