Our Approach
COMPASS Peacebuilders are case managers, mentors, and teachers. They help youth build peace in their minds, in their lives, and in their communities.
The ages of 16-24 are a period of transition for youth. Most young people enter this stage dependent on individuals and systems to meet their basic needs, provide guidance and emotional support, and help them grow into productive adults. The transition becomes challenging without these essential supports. Add the effects of trauma, inability to trust others, anxiety, and food and housing insecurity, and the transition to successful adulthood becomes a road full of barriers.
Peacebuilders become the stable adult youth need to guide them to a successful adulthood. Using Cognitive Behavior Theory (CBT) and trauma-informed practices, Peacebuilders provide youth with the essential skills they need to change the trajectory of their lives.
“We take a strength-based approach when working with our youth, focusing on our youth’s strengths, not their deficits.”
Elizabeth Giannetta-Ramos, Program Director
Cognitive Behavior Theory (CBT) is a way of understanding the relationship between what we think, feel, and do. COMPASS uses a form of CBT designed for at-risk youth that can be delivered on the corner, in a park, or on a front porch. CBT helps our young people identify a negative cycle, stop, and use a learned skill to make a positive choice instead of reacting impulsively.
Trauma-informed practice recognizes the presence of trauma symptoms and acknowledges the role trauma plays in an individual life. Trauma-informed practice is an approach that is holistic, empowering, strength-focused, collaborative, and reflective.