ABOUT US > History

Instead of fixing teenagers, we build on their strengths
For over three decades we have gained enormous expertise working with young people and building partnerships with schools, neighborhoods, and city government, as well as garnering national attention. These years of experience and extensive research into what helps young people succeed supports what the young people have told us themselves: focus on what works in their lives and help them build on those strengths.

Pioneers in youth development work
Since the early 1990s, our work has centered on the positive development of young people. When we began our work in youth development, it was nothing short of pioneering. Concepts such as forming partnerships with adults and young people; involving young people as leaders in community life; building social skills; creating caring environments; and supporting positive relationships with adults were completely new to youth work. In 2000, the national Center for Youth Development and Policy Research recognized our organization for “Serving as a National Inspiration.” Today, we train other organizations to do this same work.

In these pages, you will hear from young people how Alternatives has helped them
transform themselves, meet their potential, and be their best. You’ll hear how adults have learned to respect the fresh perspectives of the young people they work with. You’ll learn how young people have come to shape public policy. And how teams of young people and adults are working together to make their neighborhoods great places to live. Strong, gifted, creative, amazingly fun, and inspiring to be with, young people stand not only for our future, but our present.

> Timeline of Milestones & Recognition
A listing of current events and items of interest to participants and partners of Alternatives

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