Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
February 28, 2001
`Assets Fair' teaches kids while they play
Interactive Catholic Charities event develops teamwork, communication skills
by Laurie Dunklee
About 300 fifth- and sixth-graders from Catholic schools attended Catholic Charities' Assets Fair, a hands-on, interactive success-building program held at St. Francis de Sales School Feb. 15.
The children participated in games designed to practice skills such as teamwork and communication. Some games helped the children learn how to work together toward a goal, while others encouraged a positive self-image, making good choices and developing social skills.
Twelve eighth-grade "trainers," paired with volunteers from Regis University's graduate school of nursing, helped the younger students participate.
Assets for Denver Youth is designed to help students build the skills they need for success in school, at home and in their community.
The SUN schools (Schools in Urban Neighborhoods) that participated included Annunciation, St. Rose of Lima, St. Francis de Sales, Presentation of Our Lady, Guardian Angels and Assumption. SUN schools serve inner-city children, many of whom are at risk of failing because of the lack of economic and educational opportunities. Other schools represented were Loyola and Mount St. Vincent Home.
At the heart of the Assets for Denver Youth Program are 40 developmental assets, identified by experts as essential to help youth develop in positive ways.
"The assets are opportunities, skills, relationships, values and self-perceptions that all young people need to succeed," said Regan Suhay, Catholic Charities' Director of Youth Services. "What makes the fair fun for kids is that it's hands- on. They don't just sit, they actively participate."
Assets for Denver Youth is part of Assets for Colorado Youth, funded primarily by The Colorado Trust. In 1998, Catholic Charities was awarded a three-year grant to operate the Denver program.
