Project Strengthening the Circle

The goal of the project is to empower Native American youth with the skills necessary to be resilient in the face of differing environments while strengthening their resolve with the necessary knowledge and skills. Prevention programming with a basis in Native American traditions will help to build self-esteem and the internal motivation necessary when faced with the challenges of mainstreaming into society. This resiliency based program will be integrated into the high school program at St. Joseph's Indian School. St. Joseph's program provides a supportive milieu for at risk Native American Youth to succeed. Project Strengthening the Circle will be part of the curriculum taking place throughout the school year and during the summer. In overcoming the barriers, the following goals set forth are: 100 percent of students enrolled in St. Joseph's Indian School high school program will be enrolled in Project Strengthening the Circle; 100 percent of the students, graduating from St. Joseph's Indian School high school program will be placed in a four year university, a two year vo-tech program, military service, or job corp; and 100 percent of students will be monitored and supported for two years once they have graduated from the program through an active campaign of communication, scholarships, and regular and frequent contact. The evaluation will include student participation rates; program completion rates; and data about graduates. NCA/NCF