Small Group Mentoring
Students meet weekly in groups of 4 to 8. A trained adult mentor guides them in discussions about the feelings, beliefs, choices, and behaviors that underlie good or bad character. Students learn to talk through and think through their troubles, rather than react to them. As a result, they become less encumbered by inner-struggles, less driven by the poor habits of broken families and dangerous communities. Instead, they learn to practice the behaviors and choices common to successful people of good character.
Real Issues
These are not hypothetical discussions. Group members talk about their own lives, so the conclusions take on a very personal meaning. Good character becomes the most relevant topic in school because it is about how I can best live my life. As a result, students who might otherwise be apathetic about school, find themselves passionate about CiViL Groups.
Service Opportunities
CiViL Groups students are also provided with service opportunities. Participation in these projects gives them a broader view of the hardships other people face and how they as individuals can make a difference. Students develop a sense of personal power and confidence as they discover that they can change life for someone else.