2024 brought a renewed commitment by Search Institute to build and support ecosystems for youth thriving. The issues young people are facing, such as social isolation and systemic inequality, are increasingly complex. The deficit-based narrative continues to manifest in new ways, leaving youth feeling overlooked by the systems meant to support them. Youth thrive when they are supported by systems that value their strengths, provide resources, and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Collective action is essential to achieving meaningful, lasting change. No one person can ensure that all young people have the resources, opportunities, and relationships needed to thrive. But together we can.

With that in mind, we are sharing insights and strategies resulting from our work this year, with a focus on supporting youth ecosystems.

Strengthening Relationships is More Important than Ever

“A Tree Is Not a Forest”: 10 Years of Insights on Developmental Relationships
Ten insights based on 10 years of Search Institute research and practice demonstrating how developmental relationships help all young people learn, grow, and thrive.

Sharing Power with Young People

Elevating Student Voice to Strengthen Developmental Relationships 
Student voice practices can help schools overcome systemic inequities and enrich the learning experience for all young people.

Expanding Possibilities for Success

Becoming a Social Capital Promoting Organization
Search Institute’s research-based Social Capital Framework outlines four domains where organizations can promote the resources and supports that help young people define and pursue their academic and life goals.

Digital Spaces Offer Community

Finding Community in Digital Spaces:  PYD Opportunities for LGBTQ+ Young People
A positive community can help young people find a sense of belonging, purpose, and relationships.

A Strengths-Based Approach

Developmental Assets Are Key to Young People’s Positive Development
United Way of Delaware discusses using the Developmental Assets Framework and Developmental Assets Profile to encourage young people’s growth and learning.

Being Present Matters

It takes All of Us: Shifting from Chronic Absenteeism to Meaningful Engagement
Strategies to reduce chronic absenteeism and school truancy by fostering inclusive, relationship-rich school cultures, and community and family partnerships that support student engagement and well-being.

Support Youth by Empowering the Adults in their Lives

We are dedicated to not only continuing our commitment to challenge deficit-based narratives but also broadening our approach to inspire and facilitate systemic, comprehensive change. Our research-informed tools, frameworks, and solutions help create supportive environments for young people. There are many blogs from 2024 that provide insights and strategies to support youth thriving, with more being added each month. To stay connected to Search Institute research findings, check out the Search Institute Blog, and subscribe for updates.