Working Together to Build Assets

The Fairport Area Swim Team (FAST) integrates the asset building philosophy into their program. Below are the eight asset-building categories with an overview of what to focus on to be healthy and succesfull…

SUPPORT…Having people in your life who love you, care about you, and are there for you always…having places where you feel cared for, supported comfortable, and welcome.

EMPOWERMENT…Being valued and appreciated…knowing that you matter to other people…having chances to contribute and server in your community and make a difference…feeling safe at home, at school, and in your neighborhood.

BOUNDARIES & EXPECTATIONS…Knowing what behavior is in-bounds and out-of-bounds…understanding rules and consequences, and having adults who care enough to follow through…having people who challenge and inspire you to do your best.

CONSTRUCTIVE USE OF TIME…Having positive, meaningful, challenging, and fun things to do…getting involved with creative activities and places where you are likely to meet adults who care about youth

COMMITMENT TO LEARNING…Taking school seriously and making the most of every opportunity to learn…being open to learning new things…developing skills that are vital to your success.

POSITIVE VALUES…Building a strong inner core of positive values…forming beliefs and convictions that guide your choices and decisions…caring for others and honoring yourself.

SOCIAL COMPETENCIES…Developing the skills and attitudes that will help you function as an independent, capable person in the world…making friends…getting along with all types of people…having strength to avoid risky situations.

POSITIVE IDENTITY…Knowing who you are and what you are – a valuable, worth-while person with talents, skills, abilities, and promise…having positive self-esteem…having a sense of purpose.

Special thanks to Chris Razavi (a senior at Fairport High School), Jake Fisher, Jeff Wood, and Tim Jacobs. For more information on FAST, contact Marci Callan, FHS, 421-2134; on Developmental Assets, contact Debra Tandoi, 697-1817. June 2007