Salvation Army Holyoke Corps.

Organization: Salvation Army Holyoke Corps. Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination.

Program: Bridging the Gap Mission Statement: Bridging the Gap's mission is to educate youth on the resources and tools needed for them to make better decisions for themselves and ultimately attain a more promising future.

Bridging the Gap is a twelve week life skills program for at-risk and high-risk youth ages 12-17 years old (18) in High School. Bridging the Gap works with the district attorney’s office, probation departments, courts, police departments, the Department of Children and Families and local schools. We take referrals from all these sources, as well as from parents and other agencies that work with youth. Youth attend the program after school for three days a week (two to three hours each session) depends on activity. Group discussion, brainstorming, videos, worksheets, and other creative activities are used to aid youth in understanding and benefiting from the lesson. In addition to the core life-skills education, the participants have an opportunity to eat together and have some time to enjoy recreation and/or sports under the supervision of BTG staff. Personalized tutoring, art and music lessons and computer literacy are also offered. Guest speakers from the community are invited to share their expertise in the subject areas. Field trips include various colleges, museums and outdoor recreation opportunities such as kayaking on the Charles and visiting the seashore.

BTG aspires to: Prevent further involvement in illegal activities Improve self-esteem and reduce confrontations with peers Strengthen communication, trust, and understanding in relationships with friends, parents, family members, and other authoritative figures Learn anger management skills and conflict resolution techniques Improve attendance and performance in school Recognize and develop natural talents and abilities Develop a sense of responsibility and morality Understand that there are consequences for every choice that is made From healthy decision making skills Discuss teen related issues and concerns Become familiar with community resources Promote community service and involvement Connect youth with job opportunities Connect youth with mentors

• When program is completed youth will have a graduation and will receive a year free membership at the YMCA in Holyoke. Youth will also be able to participate in the Peer Leader program.*