Servicing the Hearts and Minds of Racialized Youth: Exploring the Theories of Change

Course Description

This course will survey a series of theories pertinent to youth development for those working in the not-for-profit sector. Participants will have an opportunity to identify and craft their own unique philosophy and practice to better serve the youth - in particular Black and other racialized youth - in their care.

Given the ever-changing social landscape, growing conversations and in some cases divides along racial, sex and gender, class and religious lines, as well as the reality of international and national threats, technological change, and environmental degradation, it can be an overwhelming task to take seriously the meaningful development of youth within this climate. Even more challenging, is the undertaking of developing racialized youth who possess a sense of agency and the emotional stability to advocate for holistic change in their lives and the lives of others.

In order to truly develop an effective framework for youth development, with a focus on helping young racialized youth become agents of change, this session will take seriously the various modern factors – from a theoretical standpoint – that afflict healthy youth development so as to properly understand what must be done in our praxis.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand and identify the various theories of change relevant to youth development

• Identify and articulate their own philosophy and practice and be able to apply it meaningfully in the work being done with youth

• Recognize the impacts of a range of social factors on the wellbeing and healthy development of racialized youth

Evaluation:

• Short multiple-choice Quiz