In the wake of COVID-19, teens, and the grownups who adore them, face significant challenges regarding their social and emotional development. The pandemic widened the gap in teens’ social skills, leaving many struggling with basic interpersonal interactions like communication and teamwork. The Futures Fund Culture Club tackles this head-on by giving students the responsibility and scaffolded support to lead on and off-campus mural projects. This hands-on leadership experience helps them practice problem-solving, negotiation, and collaboration. Additionally, when students lead campus-wide projects, they feel a stronger sense of agency and connection to their school.
Research has also shown that “third spaces”—places outside of home and school—are vital for helping teens to grow socially. These spaces allow them to explore their identity, build relationships, and feel a sense of community.¹ and may safeguard our teens from loneliness, stress, and alienation.³ By giving students ownership of the beautification efforts on their campus, Culture Club fosters a deeper connection to the school environment and pride in its upkeep. Studies even show that teens who have access to these kinds of spaces demonstrate higher social competence and self-esteem.
Beyond art, Culture Club directly supports schools’ PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) goals through its Friday incentives. Hosting DJ parties, gaming events, food truck roundups, and splash days, Culture Club also serves as a Tier 1 intervention tactic, keeping students engaged and motivated to improve. Research supports this approach—positive reinforcement like these events is proven to boost school engagement and attendance.²
What makes Culture Club truly unique is how student leadership is at the heart of the program. Teens take charge of every step, from design (or restoration) to execution, transforming their campuses and each other.
Citations:
¹Oldenburg R. (1999). The great good place: Cafes, coffee shops, bookstores, bars, hair salons, and other hangouts at the heart of a community. New York, NY: Marlowe & Company.
²M.R. SANTIAGO-ROSARIO, K. MCINTOSH, S. IZZARD, D.C. LISSMAN, & E. CALHOUN (2023). Is positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) an evidence-based practice? Center on PBIS
³Finlay, Jessica et al. “Closure of 'third places'? Exploring potential consequences for collective health and wellbeing.” Health & place vol. 60 (2019): 102225. doi:10.1016/j.healthplace.2019.102225
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