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Forging a New Path, 2002

NCJ Number
194983
Date Published
March 2002
Length
219 pages
Annotation
This guide provides the Boys & Girls Clubs’ prevention model used in Indian Country to promote education, healthy lifestyles, cultural enrichment, and leadership development. The documentary describes the success of six Native American Boys and Girls Clubs.
Abstract
There are nearly 120 Clubs now serving youth in Indian Country. A network of Clubs has been set up, with Native American leaders sharing ideas and experiences, providing training for teams of youth and adults, calling up the Internet for information on what other tribes are doing, and gathering for intertribal tournaments and events. The young people in Indian Country are growing in personal skills and increasing their knowledge and pride about their cultural heritage and traditions. Clubs also provide positive outlets and programs to prevent high-risk behavior. On one reservation juvenile alcohol arrests have declined considerably since the Boys & Girls Club opened. Native American children can be placed at risk because of a rapidly changing society and a decreasing sense of community. The prime promoters of the Clubs in Indian Country have been members of Tribal Councils, staff of tribally designated housing entities, and leaders in their tribes and communities. Clubs usually start with one or two individuals who initiate the idea and then interest others in the program. The key task areas for starting and operating a Club are establishing Club structures, setting up the Club, and operating the Club. Establishing Club structures includes developing a relationship with the Boys & Girls Club of America, gaining charter membership, and setting up governing structures. Setting up the Club includes planning and maintaining a facility, collaboration with the community, staff resources, and Club management. Operating the Club includes membership recruitment and retention, selecting and creating programs, maintaining safety and security, and carrying out marketing and public relations efforts. Appendix