Thurston County, Washington

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County Contacts
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Thurston County Washington

Superior Court

Youth Development Program

Youth are resources to be developed, not problems to be fixed.

Positive youth development is the umbrella over two programs (see below) that are utilized as an alternative to incarceration. Positive youth development is an intentional pro-social approach that engages youth within their communities, schools, organizations, peer groups, and families in a manner that is productive and constructive. The program recognizes, utilizes, and enhances youth’s strengths, and provides positive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships, and furnishing the support needed to build on their leadership strengths.

Seeds of Change 

The Give Back Garden is an opportunity for youth to master new skills and develop a positive work ethic. Along with gardening, the youth work on social skills, positive interactions with peers, and problem solving skills. The garden project also provides the youth opportunities to give back to their community by delivering fresh produce to our local food bank and volunteering at the food bank warehouse on those rainy Western Washington days.

Youth Development Program Afterschool 

Is designed to develop positive decision-making skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and cultivate a sense of belonging and connectedness to their community. These talents are developed through mentoring, training and skill building. We use a therapeutic/ holistic approach to help youth understand their value and purpose.

Hours of operation

The Garden Project meets: Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
YDP Afterschool meets: Monday- Friday 3:00 p.m.– 6:00 p.m.

Youth may participate in the program all day.

Those who do will stay in the garden until 2:30 p.m.

Activities include (among others):

  • Social skills training
  • Employment skills training
  • Community connection activities
  • Positive recreation and physical activity
  • Academic tutoring
  • Community based activities and events 
  • Expressive writing and performance

Meals and snacks are provided for each participant.

YDP Informational Flyer