These Youth Group Tools are planned and organized using the Science of the Positive Framework. That means that they are organized around the Science of the Positive Cycle of Transformation: each one starts with Spirit, then moves on to Science, Action, and Return. Each tool is also associated with one of the Seven Core Principles of the Science of the Positive, guideposts that promote positive leadership. The goal of these tools is to help youth group leaders develop and sustain vibrant youth groups that are focused on the Positive Community Norms Framework. Our hope is that they will teach youth to be positive leaders, to build health by promoting strengths and protective factors, and to inspire a new generation of community leaders.
Cover Page
Cycle of Transformation Image
Core Principle 1: Be Positive
Your Why Matters: Starting with Spirit
Setting the Tone: Creating a Theme for the Year
Got Your Back: Self-Esteem Activity
Core Principle 2: Be Present
Transformational Leadership Skills: Being an Upstander Part 1
Transformational Leadership Skills: Being an Upstander Part 2
Community PhotoVoice: What's Our Story
Letters to a Senior: Words of Wisdom from Elementary Students
Core Principle 3: Be Perceptive
Sustaining Your Spirit
Power of Perception: It Might Surprise You!
Communication Channels: Where are YOUth?
Core Principle 4: Be Purposeful
Balancing Hope and Concern: Reframing Conversations
Community Presentations: Using the Cycle of Transformation as a Guide
Core Principle 5: Be Perfected
Parking Lot Speeches for Youth: Creating Easy Talking Points
Pilot Testing PCN Messages Part 1: A Tool for Youth Group Leaders
Pilot Testing PCN Messages Part 2: A Tool for Youth Group Leaders
Core Principle 6: Be Proactive
Recruitment Week: Energizing Youth Groups with New Voices
Signs of Hope Campaign: Raising Community Awareness
Core Principle 7: Be Passionate
Celebrating Transformation: Community Gatherings
Celebrating Transformation: Youth Gatherings
The Big Next: Youth Leadership Retreat
These tools were created by The Montana Institute for the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Behavioral Health Division. If you have any questions, please contact, Phyllis Bengtson, MN DHS BH at phyllis.bengtson@state.mn.us ; your Regional Prevention Coordinator; or The Montana Institute at info@montanainstitute.com.