The Inspiration

For two years, a small town in Idaho, America, tried costly social intervention programs to battle their high rates of teen pregnancy and drug and alcohol abuse.

In desperation, they called a town meeting. It was decided that every adult in town would learn the name of every child in town. Each adult would talk to them and address them by name.

Over a short period of time the at-risk behaviours of the young people diminished significantly.¹

Behind this lies the Circle of Courage philosophy.

The Circle of Courage is based on the traditional Native American model of child rearing. It represents four essential building blocks for nurturing young people and developing their courage.

These principles equip young people to meet the challenges of life by helping them build up resilience and self-esteem.

The four principles are:

The Spirit of Belonging

Every young person has a deep need to belong and to experience secure, loving relationships with significant adults.

A positive relationship with at least one significant adult can make a considerable difference to that young person’s self-esteem. It will also help them learn that they can trust others and know that they are loved.

The Spirit of Mastery

Young people are given skills in which to master and survive in their environment. The talents of young people are identified and the development of these talents encouraged.

The community affirms them through acknowledging the benefit gained from the contribution made through their talents. When success is met, the desire to achieve is strengthened.

Identifying talents and skills that children have and encouraging them to develop these skills can further instil a sense of value.

The Spirit of Independence

Independence is about equipping young people with good decision making skills, a stable set of values to base their decisions on, and then allowing them more decision making responsibility in their lives. Children who are encouraged to do so develop more self worth and confidence in themselves.

The Spirit of Generosity

In helping others, young people create their own proof of worthiness: they have the power to make a positive contribution to another human life.

Young people need opportunities to contribute to others and have a commitment beyond themselves to foster the belief that they have a purpose in life.