• Floyd County is a caring community - but we can do more. 
• We want our children to succed in life. 
• Each of us can make a positive difference in the life of a young person.

A plan of action was developed when nearly 700 students told us their feelings and concerns in a 2004 Search Institute Attitudes & Behaviors survey.  The data from their responses affirmed our community’s strengths and uncovered a number of areas for improvement.  With everyone working together we can make significant positive changes.  YOU are needed on the team to make this happen!

Some of the responses given by our youth told us the following:  

• 78% of youth report a positive view of their personal future
• 76% report their family shows a high level of love and support
• 71% report acting on their convictions and stand up for their beliefs
• 48% feel they have no power over things that happen to them
• ONLY 35% report positive family communication 
• ONLY 30% know how to plan ahead and make choices
• ONLY 30% feel the community values them
• ONLY 28% read for pleasure
• ONLY 22% participate in creative activities 3 or more hours weekly.

Through various community forums for youth and adults we affirmed that:

• Youth are our most valuable asset;
• People are committed to our children and youth.
• Everyone needs to be intentional about how assets are developed in all children and youth!

Thanks to a challenge grant from the Indiana Association of United Ways, funded by the Lilly Endowment Inc., seven community partners: Caesars Foundation of Southern Indiana, Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, Floyd County Step Ahead Council, Floyd Memorial Hospital & Health Services, Interfaith Community Council, Metro United Way Floyd County and Your Community Bank, provided match contributions which resulted in the launch of Youth Count at the end of 2005.

Youth Count has great opportunities and partnerships with individuals and organizations to help ensure that our children and youth are successful in life.

Through a Partners Network, Youth Count works to engage community businesses, civic and faith-based organizations, youth programs and individuals in building awareness of and promoting asset building for youth in Floyd County.

Principles of the action plan for this initiative include a focus on:

• Strengths instead of risks or deficits
• Engagement with youth instead of simply providing services for youth
• Relationships instead of programs
• Unleashing the power of asset building instead of trying to control or direct it
• Adults and youth in the whole community instead of only professionals and parents
• Long-term objectives instead of looking for a quick fix

Read the summary of Floyd County's Attitudes and Behaviors survey .

Community Celebration

Inspiration, motivation and enthusiasm were the key outcomes for the 200 individuals who shared their excitement after experiencing extraordinary speakers and seeing incredible youth talent at the Youth Count Community Celebration. 

Sharing Asset Development

Some individuals have asked, "What can I do share youth development and the 40 Assets Development with people I know?"  Please see the Partners Network page for some real-life examples.