SCLC Alabama/Dayton Youth Development Project

Southern Christian Leadership Conference Alabama and the Dayton Youth Development Program will initiate after-school/mentoring programs at two sites (Dayton, Ohio and Tuscaloosa, Alabama) in an effort to reduce the academic failure and delinquency rates of 200 at-risk African American youth (ages 12-17). Program participants will be identified for mentoring based upon specific criteria: low reading level, lack of participation in school, behavioral problems, and belonging to a single parent household. The program's goals are to reduce juvenile delinquency and gang participation, improve academic performance, and reduce school dropout rates. The program will combine one-on-one mentoring with traditional classroom instruction, cultural components, and parental involvement. Performance measures will include improved academic standing, school attendance, graduation, and reduction in negative behaviors. The project will track stated outcomes for one year after program completion. NCA/NCF