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Let's get to the

HEART

of the matter.

The HEART Leaders Program is founded on Christian principles, which utilizes evidence-based curricula that support the whole person: Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Healthy   |    Educated   |   Active   |    Responsible   |   Thriving

mom, dad, and two children smiling

Program Overview

At the Euell A. Wilson Center, we are dedicated to cultivating Healthy, Educated, Active, Responsible, and Thriving (H.E.A.R.T.) leaders through the love of Christ. True transformation begins in the heart, shaping character, inspiring positive action, and paving the way for lifelong success.

Using evidence-based curricula, strength-based approaches, and family engagement strategies, we create a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where youth and their families can develop competencies, confidence, and strong character.

Program Outcome & Impact

By integrating positive youth development practices with family engagement and parent empowerment, the Euell A. Wilson Center ensures that every participant—both youth and their families—emerges as Healthy, Educated, Active, Responsible, and Thriving leaders.

 

Our ultimate goal is to cultivate a generation of resilient, purpose-driven individuals who, supported by strong family foundations, lead with integrity, contribute to society, and create lasting change in their communities and beyond.

Program Goals & Core Focus Areas

1.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) & Character Development

Building positive relationships and emotional resilience.

  • Foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, and responsible decision-making through evidence-based SEL curricula.

  • Encourage pro-social behaviors and positive peer interactions in a supportive community.

  • Instill values of integrity, empathy, and leadership, shaping youth into ethical role models.

2.

Health & Wellness

Promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

  • Implement holistic health initiatives that address nutrition, physical activity, and mental health.

  • Create access to mentorship, counseling, and well-being resources that support resilience and self-care.

  • Encourage participation in positive recreational activities that strengthen both mind and body.

3.

Academic Achievement & Life Skills Development

Fostering competency and confidence.

  • Provide personalized academic support, tutoring, and mentorship to help youth thrive in school.

  • Develop critical thinking, financial literacy, and career readiness skills to prepare for future success.

  • Equip youth with practical life skills that enhance independence, adaptability, and self-sufficiency.

4.

Positive Self-Expression & Community Engagement

Encouraging leadership and purpose-driven action.

  • Offer creative outlets (arts, music, public speaking) to foster self-expression and confidence.

  • Promote civic engagement and volunteerism, encouraging youth to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

  • Cultivate leadership opportunities that empower youth to advocate for change and take initiative in their personal and collective growth.

5.

Family Engagement & Parent Empowerment

Strengthening the family unit for lasting change.

  • Increase parental involvement by offering educational workshops, family counseling, and parenting resources that strengthen parenting skills and family dynamics.

  • Provide family enrichment experiences (interactive activities, community outings, and faith-based support) to build stronger parent-child relationships.

  • Offer parent leadership and empowerment programs, equipping families with tools to support their children’s academic, social, and emotional development.

  • Connect families with community resources, financial literacy programs, and workforce development opportunities to improve long-term family stability and success.

Youth & Family Development Practices Integrated in the Program

Safe & Supportive Environment

Establish a physical, emotional, and psychological safe space where youth and families feel valued and heard.

Meaningful Youth & Family Engagement

Provide opportunities for youth voice and choice, while equipping parents to be active partners in their child's growth journey.

Skill-Building & Leadership Opportunities

Encourage active learning, goal setting, and real-word application of skills that empower youth and families to lead with confidence.

Long-Term Relationships & Mentorship

Build consistent, trusting relationships with caring mentors and role models who provide guidance and encouragement.

Strength-Based Approach

Focus on identifying and developing individual strengths rather than only addressing deficits, for both youth and families.

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