 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
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| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Helena Hillman Laroche, MD and Jonathan D. Klein, MD, MPH. Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Ave. #690, Rochester, NY 14642, 585-275-7760, helena_hillman@yahoo.com
Background: Adolescent pregnancy prevention programs and other youth serving agencies often rely on mentorship to promote positive youth development. High staff turnover can significantly disrupt these relationships. Objective: To gain insight into the challenges faced by YDWs; how these challenges affect job turnover; and strategies for providing better support to YDWs. Methods: 1) Direct observation and interviews of 6 YDWs and two supervisors in four different organizations, and 2) A group interview with 8 YDWs from other organizations. All were people of color; most were from small organizations. Results: YDW’s care about and identify with high risk youth, and enjoy helping them reach their potential. Worker report stresses: 1) Few resources are available, 2) High level of need among youth, 3) Paperwork 4) Burnout/cynicism 5) Too many responsibilities 6)Miscommunication between supervisors and YDW’s 7) Personal financial strain 8) Lack of job security 9) Physical danger at work. Workers identified the following needs: 1) Appreciation 2) Support from superiors 3) Flexibility and support to try new ideas 4) Opportunities to advance within organizations 5) Experienced mentorship 6) Resources – increased funding, personnel, paid work hours 7) Role definition Conclusions: For programs to be effective and minimize turnover, YDWs require resources, training, mentorship and appreciation. Small organizations are limited in resources and advancement opportunities. Funders and agencies should develop better support for youth serving agencies as part of support for intervention programs.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Adolescents, Underserved Populations
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.