Turning Point Project
Abstract
As an experiential learning project, I had the privilege of working alongside male youth who are placed in Turning Point Foster Care Program. I wanted to focus my efforts on finding an outlet for the boys through physical activity. I initially went into this project with a plan to coach the boys on various sports: soccer, basketball, flag football, touch rugby, etc. However, I found myself doing more than just that as their sports activity coordinator. There were many boys who wanted to learn more about physical education and the importance of being active. I ended up helping some boys with their dietary plans and coming up with a workout regimen that helped them to lose some weight.
Goals
During these months of me being a sports activity coordinator, the amount of restraints I had to do in the facility decreased by more than half. It was good to see the boys having a different way to exert their energy look at me in a different light from just a normal line staff. I felt like I actually was making an impact in their life and that they were benefiting from what I was teaching them. I can whole heartedly say that I feel I met each of my goals by decreasing their stress levels and the amount of times they act out. Playing sports brought fellowship and sportsmanship, which are both difficult things to achieve in an atmosphere such as Turning Point. In addition to all of this, I truly feel that the boys gained confidence in their overall capabilities and self-esteem by being more physically active.
Objectives
Before I started implementing a sports program at Turning Point, the boys would throw tantrums multiple times a day, they would talk back to staff members, they would lie and cheat their way through every day of treatment, they would get into fights with each other as well as staff members, some would self-harm, they would break windows, put holes in the walls, vandalize property, and many other things that were harmful to themselves, others and the facility. Ever since I started working with the boys, they would now channel their energy and frustration towards physical activity. Even if it wasn’t a weekend and we weren’t playing any sports that day, many boys would take a step out of the facility for fresh air and just take a deep breath and understand that they can displace their anger on something worth their while. Understanding that has been a huge step in the right direction for many of these boys. I’ve most definitely learned a lot about myself as a coach, peer, perhaps even a mentor to some of these kids. I’ve learned many similar traits as the boys: patience, understanding, endurance, and hard work.
Deliverables
The program I designed included learning one different sport per week. I also quizzed the boys on the different sports we played. For most of the sports like touch rugby and flag football, I gave the boys a little handout of the instructions on how to play the game and the different rules. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to showcase the youth in a PowerPoint because it was a liability issue with the facility, however, it was a successful program and I would love to implement it again next year or simply continue the program as a part of one of their weekend activities.
Timeline
February- Basketball and Soccer
March- Rugby and Volleyball
April- Hikes & Exercise
May- compile results
Reflection
The project was successful and the youth were heavily involved every step of the way. They enjoyed learning different sports that they never played before, especially the sports they didn't think they were good at. The youth were always looking forward to working out and participating in sports and outdoor activities. It was an incentive for them. When I was done with my project, the Turning Point supervisor spoke to me about the success of my project and how he wanted to open a position as a Sports Activity Coordinator for the youth. I no longer work there because of football and other extra curricular involvement, however, it is very moving to me to know that through this EDGE Project, I was able to make a lasting impression and change some of the youth's attitude toward physical activity and using their energy to benefit themselves.