1. Designing Effective Leadership Teambuilding Programs for Youth Tyrone Miller, Ed.D. Leadership and Organizational Development Specialist Tennessee State University

2. Objectives To share considerations and best practices for designing effective teambuilding programs for youth To share results of several teambuilding experiences with youth

3. Best practices for implementing effective teambuilding programs for youth Committed, caring adults Flexibility Quality staff training and education Safe space Cultural component Family and/or key stakeholder involvement Enriching curricula

4. Considerations For Developing Effective Teambuilding Programs Logistics Group Dynamics Legal issues Medical issues Resources Physical Ability Space Number of participants Needs of the participants

5. Other Considerations Take time to understand culture and group norms Allow youth to start with a “blank slate” Intentionally establish group norms Maintain a positive attitude and positive expectations Clearly communicate expectations

6. Model program: Backfield in Motion DREAM Project 13-15 participants ranging in age from 8 th to 11 th grade 2 coaches 2 facilitators

7. Model program: Backfield in Motion DREAM Project - II Program components: – 4 days of workshops – Topics included: Team Building Self Awareness/ Actualization Vision/Mission Decision Making Service/Advocacy Healthy Male/Female Relationships Conflict Resolution Careers/Entrepreneurship

8. Backfield in Motion DREAM Project - III Program evaluation consisted of post-program surveys and observations Results: – Put-downs and teasing by participants (otherwise known as “discounting”) was reduced by at least 40% based on observations – 76% of participants indicated that they learned more about leadership skills in general – At least 70% of participants indicated that they learned more about their personality, entrepreneurship and teamwork skills

9. Model program: Backfield in Motion DREAM Project

10. Model Program: Developing Future Scientists Day Camp Project

11. Model Program: Youth Leadership Program - Cheatham County

12. The Wisdom of the Group

13. Contact Information: Tyrone Miller, Ed.D. Extension Leadership & Organization Development Specialist/ Assistant Professor Tennessee State University 615.963.1843 tmiller11@tnstate.edu tmiller11@tnstate.edu