VSS YOUTH PROGRAM
Like all parents, Vietnamese mothers
and fathers have high hopes for their children. They dream that their children
will do well in school, stay away from violence and drugs, and become
well-adjusted members of their communities and society. But, in addition to
experiencing all of the social and emotional challenges faced by adolescents
generally, Vietnamese children must deal with a complex set of cultural
conflicts. They must learn to fit in with a society that has values and ways
very different from the one from which they come. The question of self-identity
becomes, for them, very complicated and confusing. The parents, raised with
traditional values such as strong parental authority and respect for family,
often do not understand the struggles their children face when interacting with
American youth accustomed to much more freedom and independence. Sometimes the
parents resort to harsh discipline, which can result in their children becoming
rebellious and getting into trouble.
Staying in School and
Avoiding Drugs and Violence
Since 1992, the Youth Program has striven to help Vietnamese youth
interact with the new society in healthy ways. The program provides practical
help in areas such as academic tutoring and chossing careers. It provides
workshops on avoiding alcohol and drugs, conflict resolution, and teenage
pregnancy. It gives youth opportunities to participate in service activities,
such as cleaning up parks on Earth Day.
Bridging
the Divide Between Parents and Children
At the same time, the Youth Program helps children and parents to grow
in cross-generational understanding and respect. Program counselors visit the
homes of every youth enrolled in the program at least once each year. Youth
Program-sponsored parent-teacher meetings help parents to get to know the
school teachers and to learn about the methods and expectations of the American
education system. Intensive family intervention is provided in cases where
there is severe family conflict and youth rebellion. The Youth Program also
maintains a relationships with mental health agencies, juvenile justice
organizations, and other agencies that can provide help where VSS cannot.
Fun
and Games Into the Mix
No program serving young people can succeed without infusing fun
experiences into the mix of activities. Youth Program participants enjoy
recreational activities ranging from bowling and roller-skating, to dances, and
wilderness outings in Minnesota's beautiful parks. The youth also learn
traditional Vietnamese songs and dances, and share their talents for the
enjoyment of other members of the community at Vietnamese New Year celebrations
and multicultural events at the schools.
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