News and Opportunities

Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Pathways Project recently spent six months collecting data from youth, parents and staff of Alternatives' Wicked Truth technology training program. The purpose of this study of positive youth development program is to improve understanding of how young people develop skills in youth programs and how these skills transfer to other parts of their lives.

Initial evaluation results have determined that Wicked Truth - which includes the same core approach and values of all of Alternatives' Youth Development programs - is a highly effective youth development program. Researchers especially highlighted the programs significant strengths in: facilitating development of positive, trusting relationships; offering challenging, real-world activities that build life and career skills; and, fostering active engagement among program participants. As a result of these qualities, the program was found to effectively develop responsibility, effective leadership, initiative, self-direction, social skills, and adaptability for youth participants, skills participating parents also noted their children demonstrating at home and in other contexts.

Download the Executive Summary below to read more about the research and initial findings.