The Art of Living Health and Education Trust supports Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES!) programs in the District of Columbia.

What is YES!?

YES! is an educational program designed by of the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), a partner organization, that provides high school students with a comprehensive set of tools they can use to achieve their full potential as students, leaders, and community members. The YES! curriculum includes elements of stress management, character education, social-emotional learning and conflict resolution.

Preliminary research data suggest that the tools and techniques taught during the YES! program improve focus, clarity and concentration while reducing anger, anxiety and depression. Students learn tools for relaxation and stress reduction, including innovative breathing techniques, and engage in interactive processes that increase their self-confidence and enhance their ability to feel comfortable in challenging situations.

An effective program

Conflict Resolution
Students participate in experiential processes for developing effective problem-solving skills and strategies for successfully dealing with peer pressure. Teamwork exercises highlight cooperation and conflict resolution, and develop students’ interpersonal skills.

Leadership
Students take part in interactive games and projects that cultivate leadership abilities, cooperation, and an understanding of group dynamics. Activities emphasize the importance of effective goal setting, time management, and follow through.

Character Education
Students explore human values such as respect, integrity, forgiveness, friendliness and nonviolence. 

Social-Emotional Learning
Students engage in group discussions and interactive processes that help them develop personal and academic goals for success, positive social relationships, good decision-making and the power of responsibility. They learn breathing techniques that allow them to manage and release their negative emotions and stress.

Statistics

• 96% of students that participated in the YES! Program report an increase in calmness
• 93% report a better mood
• 93% report a decrease in stress level
• 89% report an increase in focus
• 86% report a decrease in anger and irritability
• 69% report better sleep habits

Partner Schools in the District of Columbia

• Booker T. Washington Public Charter School
• Bell Multicultural High School
• Academy for Ideal Education
• McKinley Technology High School