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Copyright 2008
Our Mission Possible
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OURMP PROGRAMS Updated: June 8th, 2008
"Human potential, though
not always apparent is there, waiting to be discovered and invited
forth." Our motivational programs invite teens to expand their desire, expand their vision, overcome obstacles, realize the power of community, and ask for assistance from others. We provide motivational programs in a safe and caring environment utilizing Active and Cooperative learning and transforming environment strategies of Jean Gibbs. We also use Search Institute's 40 Developmental Assets as a resouce for our programs. Studies have found the 40 Developmental Assets to be catalysts for positive change in individuals, organizations and communities. The Assets nurture the qualities that guide positive life choices. We locate teens through counselors, truancy courts, community outreach programs and the juvenile justice system. Many “at risk” teens lack cooperative skills, self-respect, self-esteem, self-efficacy, self-awareness, good role models, and positive motivation. They may have never been encouraged to dream, or have been shown how to achieve their dreams. Many have never been told that their thoughts, feelings, dreams or ideas are important or achievable.
ACTIVE & COOPERATIVE LEARNING MODEL The Active and Cooperative learning models consist of high levels of student involvement in the learning process. Students break into small cooperative groups of 3 to 5 to accomplish group objectives. Each group is guided by a coach. During this process, students are encouraged to discuss with others, developing problem solving abilities and social skills through social activities. Often they will brainstorm and discuss solutions of the assigned problems. This provides an opportunity for program companions to help each other with their misconceptions. Through positive reinforcement, students are encouraged to take risks and offer varying points of view. Every student’s contribution is acknowledged and honored. For the most part, the facilitator and coaches stay in the background and oversee the team activities, on a number of module topics. However, he/she occasionally intervenes in order to answer students’ questions or to steer a group in the right direction. This allows the students to be active during group work and have control and define their own paths of learning. Although it may be subtle, the role of the facilitator and coach are an integral part of group work as guides for their journey. This learning setting fosters student interaction, encourages students to actively process knowledge and engage in sense-making activities for themselves. The students are offered problems to solve by the facilitator and guided by a coach within their group; however the answers are controlled by the students. Students answer their own questions and are accountable for the quality of the questions. This participatory responsibility causes students to reflect upon their own knowledge building teamwork and leadership abilities. We encourage teens to ask better questions, and develop problem solving skills. We believe teens have unlimited potential, choices, and the first step toward success and happiness in life can be tools on how to stand tall, have a firm handshake and present yourself with confidence, and pride. We encourage them to dream big and help them learn the necessary steps required to achieve their goals. "This
was really a good (program). There were some things I learned and
some things that made me step up and really know what life is about.
I learned that you have to step up and don’t have to be smart
to be someone in life.”
PROGRAM PROVIDES "LIFE TOOLS" Our programs offer teens tools to develop their social competency skills, positive identity, problem solving skills, and develop a desire for a lifetime of learning. The Texas Judges For Teen Success Program is designed by judges for judges, to be offered for teens "at risk". The judge then selects teens who might be helped by our program and refers them to a "Our Mission Possible" program, in lieu of fines or other means of punishment.
"The adults here truly
care about our futures. I felt inspired. I think this program is
giving inspiration and hope to those who previously were unaware
of their potential."
PROGRAM ATTENDEES RECEIVE Each attendee receives a “Life Tools”
booklet which presents an overview of topics presented in the program
and provides additional tools to assist in making better choices
in their lives. In addition, they also receive a “Community Resource” booklet, containing school programs, GED assistance, internships, food, clothing, shelter, counseling, child care, and other goods and services offered by talented and generous organizations, corporations, and community groups. “I learned how to be kind, and how to overcome fear. I also learned how to find power in giving to others.” OurMP Graduate - Lukas U.
BENEFITS FOR TEENS & COMMUNITY Participating teens often arrive resistant and non-participatory.
By means of our interactive team building group exercises, positive
reinforcement, and non-shaming methods, we experience great success
in igniting a desire for success. Our tools motivate everyone involved including facilitators. We use the latest positively reinforced educational modules which activate visual, auditory, intellectual, and physical stimulation.
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