Developmental Assets
The YMCA Teen Division embraces a model in which 40 critical factors have been identified in young people's positive growth and development. When drawn together, the assets offer a set of benchmarks for positive development. The assets clearly show the importance of families, schools, congregations, neighborhoods, youth organizations and communities in shaping teenagers' lives.

External developmental assets include support, empowerment, boundaries and expectations and constructive use of time. As an example, boundaries and expectations focuses on family, school and neighborhood boundaries as well as adult role models, positive peer influence and high expectations.

Internal developmental assets include a commitment to learning, positive values and social competencies. As an example, commitment to learning focuses on achievement and school motivation, homework, bonding to school and reading for pleasure.

Measureable Results
Every year teens participating in our programs tell us the experience positive change because of the YMCA. 

• 100% said staff and volunteers at YMCA expect them to repect others' feelings and property
• 99% said staff and volunteers at the YMCA challenged them to do their best
• 97% believe that involvement in YMCA helps them make better decisions