It’s the journey, not the destination, that makes life what it is. Here are some tips from the Voyages staff that might make your journey a little smoother:

Keep groups small. In our experience, boys of the target age and population were rambunctious and challenging. Although it may mean additional staff, keeping working groups small, or splitting sessions is more conducive to attention and program effectiveness.

Figure out ways to make learning and change long-term. One month of half-day sessions, the time slotted for the Voyages program, is not enough to counteract the negative environmental influences most participants face. Extending the program in the summer, and adding a component that continues during the school year is necessary for behavior and attitudinal changes that may be sparked by the program to solidify in the months ahead.

Involve the folks at home. Because home environments already play a vital role in the lives of participants, resources that target positive involvement from the parents and important adults of Voyages participants might enable the boys to increase their base of support and reinforcement in regard to program goals.

Research evaluation and program impact carefully. Program evaluation should be a tool appropriate for program participants and matched closely to impacts most likely to occur. Finding effective tools and methods is a process worth the effort.