Everyone Can Build Assets

Simple actions do make a difference, and every one of us has the power to create positive assets in our daily lives. We just have to take the time!

Today's children and youth need adults in their lives who care about them and make them feel that they matter.  One way for young people to get the important experiences, skills and guidance they need—developmental assets—is for young people to be connected with and supported by a web of caring, responsible adults. 

Here are some simple things you can do to build assets with and for young people:
Ideas for youth
Ideas for all adults
Ideas for parents
Ideas for schools
Ideas for congregations

 Ideas for youth

• Learn the names of your neighbors (both adults and children). Go out of your way to greet them.
• Write a note (or call) one of the main asset builders in your life, thanking her/him for making a difference in your life.
• Talk about 40 Developmental Assets with members of your family. Which assets do family members think are the strongest in your family?
• Even if your family provides a warm, caring, supportive place to grow, also seek support through adults in schools, community organizations and congregations.

Ideas for all adults

• Get to know the kids in your neighborhood.
• Smile at kids you come in contact with, say hello and wait for a reply.
• Ask young people their opinion on issues that affect them.
• Ask young people how they are doing and really listen to what they say.
• Praise young people when they make good decisions and act kindly.
• Be a good role model for all kids.
• Serve as a volunteer, a tutor, or mentor.
• Support organizations and programs for youth.

 Ideas for parents

• Take time to eat meals together and share in conversation.
• Model and talk about the values you wish to pass on to your children.
• Participate in activities with your child, including projects around the house and recreational activities.
• Be involved in your child's education by attending school activities, monitoring homework and staying in contact with teachers.

 Ideas for businesses

• Develop family-friendly policies that allow parents to be active in their children's lives.
• Provide opportunities for employees to build relationships with young people through volunteering, mentoring, and internship programs.
• Sponsor and support youth clubs, sports teams and other organizations that promote constructive use of children's time.
• Recognize and reward individuals who make a difference in the lives of young people.

 Ideas for schools

• Engage students as leaders and decision makers
• Have administrators and staff greet students at the door each morning
• Open your building to community groups and youth organizations during non-school hours
• Invite parents and grandparents to have lunch with students
• Help youth discover and use their talents

 Ideas for congregations

• Plan intergenerational events to encourage people of different ages to get to know one another.
• Make service to others a part of ongoing programming for youth.
• Take time to pay attention to every young person in the congregation.
• Get involved in community initiatives or partnerships that support and value young people.