In an era in which our community is often inundated with negative publicity surrounding student behavior that includes violence, bullying, substance abuse and apathy toward others, we have been given an opportunity through the Safe Schools/Healthy Students (SSHS) grant to provide a forum from which student groups can articulate and celebrate their positive influence. A district-wide campaign has been developed to empower diverse student groups of all ages. Under the pro-social paradigm, students will video-tape their varied accomplishments and collaboration with one another and outside agencies.   The overarching theme of this campaign will focus on how students are working together to “make a difference” through community engagement.

Pro-Social :

• Any club, organization or activity that provides an opportunity for youth to engage in positive activities outside the   classroom.
• Included under this definition are academic clubs, the arts, prevention based clubs, humanities,leadership and athletic organizations at every level.
• Pro-Social clubs benefit the student and the community through building self-esteem, civic engagement and a connection to school and others.

When we ask, “Why are Pro-Social Clubs and activities important for the development of our youth…”

Three processes that promote protective factors for youth:

1) Active, productive engagement in pro-social organizations

2) Skills created through pro-social involvement

3) Consistent systems of recognition and reinforcement for pro-social involvement

These factors protect against the development of conduct problems, school misbehavior, truancy, and drug abuse.

When bonds are strong and families, schools, and communities express clear norms against unwanted behaviors like interpersonal violence or drug abuse, problems are less likely to occur.

Relevant data for supporting Pro-Social Clubs:

• At least 95% of studies confirm that students participating ion co-curricular activities benefit profoundly.

• 2% increase in standardized test scores with scores continuing to climb with an increase in student participation.

• Increase in volunteerism and voting. (Connection to community and county increased)

• DECREASE in drop-out-rate, substance abuse, sexual activity, suicide, risky behaviors….etc. (Social Development Research Group)

Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT)

Students Working Against Tobacco or SWAT is the name of youth clubs in Broward’s middle and high schools to address the alleged manipulation and targeting of youth by tobacco companies.  SWAT also provides school-based tobacco prevention information and awareness campaigns.

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Drug Free Youth in Town (DYFIT)

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Students Against Destructive Decisions(SADD)

Students Against Destructive Decisions (S.A.D.D.) chapters are located in Broward County’s middle and high schools.  Originally, S.A.D.D. was a high school club whose focus was helping young people say “No” to drinking and driving.  Today, the mission and student base has expanded and has evolved into a peer leadership organization dedicated to focusing attention on the potentially life threatening consequences of destructive decisions surrounding the issues of underage drinking, other drug use, and impaired driving._

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Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA)

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