Youth violence in the USA is overwhelming. Communities must address the root cause and the choices young people make that prevent positive outcomes in their lives. “Smart” phones and social media platforms have created generations who lack interpersonal skills. Interpersonal skills give individuals empathy for life, ability to read non-verbal communication, and most importantly, how to interact with others to resolve disagreement.
We Work Things OutTM program is an answer to this problem. Initially serving cities in GA, the program works with middle school students weekly. We Work Things OutTM will stay involved with students through college. The program strategy is interactive and infuses STEAM team projects focusing on conflict resolution, interpersonal skills, value of life, anti-racism, social responsibility, entrepreneurship and life skills.
Ralph Bunche Middle School in Atlanta is the program’s pilot school partner. We Work Things OutTM is delivered in-person at school and virtually as needed. Program community partners are Therrell High School Alumni Association, Inc., Camrose Creative Services, Inc., Urban Mediamakers, and WeCodeAcademy providing volunteers.