Developmental Assets are positive supports and strengths that young people need to succeed as identified by the Search Institute. Half of the forty Assets focus on the relationships and opportunities students need in their families, schools, and communities (External Assets). The remaining Assets focus on the social-emotional strengths, values, and commitments that are nurtured within young people (Internal Assets). Assets help protect students from risky behaviors and choices while they promote positive behaviors and experiences. BCSC uses this research-based foundation as a way to address social and emotional learning for students through programming, instruction, and community connections.

Developmental Assets are developed primarily through Developmental Relationships between supporting adults and young people. Developmental Relationships are close connections through which young people discover who they are, cultivate abilities to shape their own lives, and learn how to engage with and contribute to the world around them. The Search Institute has identified five ways in which adults can effectively support young people by expressing care, challenging growth, providing support, sharing power, and expanding possibilities.

If you would like to learn more about Development Assets and our partnership with Council for Youth Development, visit the CYD Website Here.