- Q: How can I get the YES curriculum?
A: The curriculum is available for download free of charge. To access the curriculum, follow this link: Downloading Instructions.
- Q: Is YES only a violence prevention program?
A: No, YES was created to address positive youth development and violence prevention. The curriculum is designed to promote leadership and community engagement. The skills that participants gain in the program are broadly applicable. - Q: What kinds of organizations have used the YES curriculum?
A: YES has been implemented by various organizations including churches, health departments, youth groups and after-school programs. - Q: What age group is YES appropriate for?
A: YES was designed for youth ages 11-14 years, however, the program may be adapted for high school and upper elementary grades. - Q: Has YES been successful in preventing youth violence?
A: Initial results indicate that YES participants are less likely than similar non-participants to report being victims of violence. The study also found a reduction in crime incidents in the area surrounding a key YES community improvement project. YES is currently being tested in a randomized, controlled trial in eight middle schools. - Q: How can I get the YES program started in my organization?
A: We recommend that organizations wishing to implement YES participate in curriculum training. More information about the training that we provide is available here. - Q: Are YES materials available online?
A: Yes, two versions of the YES curriculum are available for download. Program evaluation material and adaptation guide are also available. - Q: Can the empowerment approach used in YES be applied to other health behaviors involving youth?
A: Yes, an empowerment approach can be used to promote healthy youth development in general. For more information on empowerment theory, see our publications section. - Q: How are teachers trained for the YES program?
A: We offer an eight-hour training for YES group leaders. For more information, see our Training Information. - Q: Is there published research about the YES program?
A: Yes. Please see the publications section.
