El Concilio del Condado de Ventura developed the Breakthrough Youth for Success Program in 1994 directly responding to the increase of Latino youth involved in behaviors leading to negative outcomes for youth and the community. The program targets 150 high-risk male/female youth between the ages of 14-19. The program incorporates youth development principals by reducing risk behaviors with the integration of a positive strength-based approach. The Breakthrough Youth for Success Program incorporates the following prevention education strategies: A) Comprehensive Sexuality Education, B) HIV/AIDS, C) Alcohol & Drug, D) Clinical Services Linkages, E) Service Learning, F) Male involvement, G) Youth Leadership Development, and H) Life Skills.

The project has had great success in increasing positive family communication/relationships, and is a contributing factor in the reduction of negative youth behavior. Youth attend weekly meetings where topics discussed promote self-confidence, good communication skills, prevention, self-awareness, and healthy lifestyles addressing all presented education strategies.

The project has also assisted youth in attaining the following measurable outcomes: Increased school performance, decreased delinquency, decreased truancy, lower gang affiliation, and youth learn to write resume, post resumes online, navigate web job sites, mock interview skills, and learn about the do's and don'ts of appropriate work attire. All these skills have been shown to increase job readiness, and employment retention.

For more information on the program please contact Beatriz Zamudio at bzamudio@elconcilioventura.org or call (805)486-9777 X225.

Thank you,

Reyna V. O'Neil
Executive Director
El Concilio del Condado de Ventura
(805) 486-9777 X 228
roneil@elconcilioventura.org