YouthGoals Goal 1 Enhance communication to youth and parents about existing programs available in the community. Strategies Advertise low- or no-cost youth programs Develop a comprehensive communications strategy Goal 2 Pursue opportunities for new spaces to conduct youth programming, both in new and existing facilities. Strategies Create youth program space at Lincoln Village Better utilize school properties Explore opportunities for utilizing existing spaces Goal 3 Ensure the neighborhood’s youth have a safe means of transportation to and from programs. Strategies Low-cost safe transportation programs Build a network of safe transportation options Goal 4 Promote positive alternative activities to get youth involved in meaningful hobbies. Strategies Expand anti-gang programming Identify at-risk youth EXISTING CONDITIONSYouth Population <18 Asbury Park 24%West Side 33%Lincoln Village 42%Poverty 0%... of Asbury Park youth live in poverty, compared to 15% statewideKey Programs BOYS & GIRLS CLUB College Bound: Mentoring and scholarship Girls on the Run: 10-week empowerment program SMART Girls: Encouraging healthy attitudes and lifestyles Gang Prevention guidance and support Passport to Manhood: promoting positive values and behavior COVENANT HOUSE Street Outreach Team INTERFAITH NEIGHBORS Youth workforce development programs Afterschool programs PREVENTION FIRST LifeSkills Training: Substance abuse prevention program for middle school students Project Vision: Life skills program for at-risk youth ages 11-16 Safe Dates: Healthy relationship curriculum We’re Not Buying It: Media awareness program BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS One-on-one mentoring for youth ages 6-14 High school student mentors for middle and elementary school students Site-based mentoring (often through schools) Click here to see more supporting data from the needs assesmentThe Community Says After-school programming is lacking and has decreased in recent years There is a lack of trust between generations Open spaces on school properties are locked outside of school hours Awareness of existing programs is low, and preventing participation Transportation and access to programs needs improvement Underserved age groups need more programming options