July 30, 2026
Earning Stickers and Building Confidence
Introducing our Passport Youth Incentive Program
We're always looking for ways to celebrate the growth we see in our youth. This summer, that search led us to something new. The Passport Youth Incentive Program grew out of Words & Wonders, our summer literacy and arts program, and it quickly became one of our favorites. It's a fun, interactive way to encourage engagement and recognize the progress each young person makes.
How It Works
Each mentor carries a passport book with a page for every youth. As they complete activities centered on literacy, social-emotional learning, positive behaviors, and community engagement, they earn stickers and points that fill their passport along the way.
More Than Just Stickers
Every marker represents something worth celebrating: a new skill learned, a positive choice made, a goal reached, or the courage to try something new. Together, they tell the story of each young person's growth, turning everyday moments into milestones they can see, celebrate, and be proud of.
We're already seeing the difference it makes. Steffon shared that Zane's behavior has been on point. He’s earned several stickers in his passport by showing excellent listening skills out in the community and by being polite, respectful, and courteous to both his peers and the adults around him. He was proud to share the stickers he'd earned. That pride tells us he understands the value of making positive choices, and he's motivated to keep going. Zane's growth reflects the work he's putting into developing strong habits and social skills.
This was our first summer with the passport program, and we already know it won't be our last. We'll be bringing it back, and we'll keep sharing these moments as we go.