Teen Institute — Making Today's Teens Tomorrow's Leaders

See their potential and bring it to life.

If teens are going to become tomorrow's leaders, we have to start nurturing their leadership potential today. That's why Initiatives for Human Development developed Teen Institute, an evidenced-based, four-day experiential program that has enabled thousands of teenagers, including at-risk teens, to learn what it means to be leaders in their communities.

At Teen Institute, participants enjoy presentations, activities and discussions related to a broad range of issues young people deal with every day, including peer pressure, phobias, cultural diversity, alcohol and other drugs, and relationships with family, teachers, and friends. They are introduced to a variety of safe, healthy pastimes that can relieve stress and contribute to safe, healthy lifestyles, such as yoga, music, art, journal writing, theater and dance. They also learn about leadership styles, explore personality types, and engage in action-oriented, fun-filled team building exercises — all directed by certified prevention specialists, supported by a staff of recent Teen Institute graduates.

Importantly, every teen who attends Teen Institute develops an "actionplan" to address a specific issue in his or her community, for example, how to reduce underage drinking or how to prevent bullying and stereotyping. With follow-up support by the sponsoring organization and IHD staff, Teen Institute graduates are ready to try real leadership by putting their plans into action when they return home.

Teen Institute incorporates all 8 factors deemed important by the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine (2002) for successful Positive Youth Development programs:

For more information about how you can use Teen Institute to nurture a teen's leadership skills, send us an email or call IHD today at 401-213-6806.