| Youth Programs: Promoting Quality Services has been prepared to assist youth leaders in creating and implementing programs and activities that are innovative, dynamic, and that have a core of youth development principles. This book contains the information needed to operate high-caliber, high-impact youth programs. It includes materials on such topics as youth development, program planning, program evaluation, risk management, behavior management, leadership, customer service, public relations and youth development. |
| Some of the concepts related to youth development may be new to youth leaders, and it is important that leaders providing services to youth become familiar with these guidelines. The insertion of youth development competencies (developmental experiences for youth) into leisure (nonschool) programs and services will help youth reach their potential and become positive, productive adults able to cope with life challenges. |
| There are a number of national trends impacting on youth today that reinforce the need for strong, well-managed youth programs in our communities. Many of these issues are troubling. It is important for you, as a youth leader, to consider the ways in which youth programs and services can have a preventative or prescriptive impact on youth. The way in which young people meet their basic needs and develop as individuals will be impacted by individuals, organizations and agencies that influence their lives. Youth leaders play such a role. |
| We express appreciation for the support needed to produce these materials. Some of the individuals who have contributed their ideas and support toward the development of this effort are Robert Harding, Keith Painter and Jane Wilde. Other individuals who contributed to the book, are Dr. Don DeGraaf, Kathy DeGraaf, Dr. Debra Jordan, Lou Tanselli, David Edginton, Carole Edginton and Dr. Susan Koch. We extend our appreciation to them. |
 | SUSAN R. EDGINTON
CHRISTOPHER R. EDGINTON, Ph.D. |
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