Our Guiding Principles
All areas of our work are guided by four core principles:
Responsibility
We work on the premise that when each of us chooses to be responsible for our own lives, we gain the power to; be accountable and answerable for ourselves, realise our goals and contribute to the community. Training in being responsible, keeping promises and dealing with mistakes is fundamental to the success of our programmes.
Possibility
Seeing a worthwhile future is an important element in life. We believe that individuals take action consistent with what they see is possible. The learning experience of our programmes allows young people to envision new possibilities and a worthwhile future for themselves.
Self-Expression
Self-expression is key to experiencing self worth, developing relationships and participating in a supportive community. Developing self awareness, articulating thoughts and feelings, learning to communicate effectively and exploring other means of effective self-expression are key elements of our programmes.
Community
Building and sustaining a supportive community based on respect and appreciation in which everyone contributes and in which there are clear boundaries for acceptable behaviour is a primary commitment of Youth at Risk. We coach programme participants to develop their commitments and skills in being part of such a community.
