YOUTH AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

LEADERSHIP, MENTORSHIP, AND CAREER READINESS

The 20 or 24-Week Youth After-School Program is an extensive initiative aimed at developing leadership skills, providing mentorship, and enhancing career readiness for young individuals through the engaging platform of basketball, structured breakout sessions, and physical training. This program is designed to nurture holistic development, encouraging participants to excel both on and off the court.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

Weeks 1-4: Introduction and Team Building:

• Orientation and Goal Setting: Participants are introduced to the program's objectives and set personal and group goals.

• Team Building Activities: Engaging exercises designed to build trust, cooperation, and communication among participants.

• Basketball Fundamentals: Initial focus on the basics of basketball to ensure all participants are on the same level and to start building a sense of teamwork.

Weeks 5-8: Leadership Development:

• Leadership Workshops: Interactive sessions focusing on various aspects of leadership, including decision-making, conflict resolution, and effective communication.

• Guest Speakers: Community leaders and professionals share their experiences and insights on leadership.

• Leadership in Action: Participants take on leadership roles during basketball practices and games, applying what they've learned in real-time situations.

Weeks 9-12: Mentorship and Personal Development:

• Mentorship Pairing: Each participant is paired with a mentor who provides guidance, support, and encouragement throughout the program.

• Personal Development Workshops: Topics include self-esteem, goal setting, time management, and resilience.

• Reflection and Feedback: Regular check-ins with mentors to discuss progress, challenges, and personal growth.

Weeks 13-16: Career Readiness:

• Career Exploration Sessions: Exposure to various career paths through guest speakers, virtual tours, and hands-on activities.

• Resume Writing and Interview Skills: Practical workshops on creating resumes, writing cover letters, and practicing interview techniques.

• Job Shadowing Opportunities: Arrangements for participants to shadow professionals in their fields of interest for a day.

Weeks 17-20: Advanced Basketball and Physical Training:

• Advanced Basketball Skills: Focused training on advanced basketball techniques, strategy, and game-play analysis.

• Physical Conditioning: Comprehensive physical training program to enhance fitness, strength, and agility.

• Nutrition and Wellness Education: Sessions on healthy eating, injury prevention, and overall wellness to support physical performance and personal health.

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Weeks 21-24: Integration and Application:

• Capstone Project: Participants work on a project that integrates leadership, mentorship, and career readiness skills. This could involve organizing a community event, developing a business plan, or another creative endeavor.

• Showcase Event: A concluding event where participants present their capstone projects, demonstrate their basketball skills, and share their personal growth stories with families, mentors, and community members.

• Program Reflection and Celebration: Final sessions dedicated to reflecting on the journey, celebrating achievements, and setting future goals.

PROGRAM BENEFITS

• Comprehensive Skill Development:
  The program covers a wide range of skills from leadership and teamwork to career readiness and physical fitness.
   

• Mentorship and Support:
  Continuous mentorship provides personalized guidance and support, fostering strong, positive relationships.
   

• Career Exposure and Preparation:
  Participants gain valuable insights into various career paths and develop practical skills for future job opportunities.
   

• Holistic Growth:
  The combination of physical training, personal development, and skill-building activities ensures well-rounded growth.
   

• Community Engagement:
  The program encourages participants to engage with and contribute to their community, fostering a sense of civic responsibility.