Because Anytown Arizona provides a one-of-a-kind educational experience addressing the core social issues weaving through our everyday lives, our programs deliver a lasting impact. The five key objectives are achieved not only during the program itself, but also as participants reflect upon their experience and apply their learnings throughout their lives.
The objectives are:
- Increase self-esteem and personal empowerment.
- Enhance trust, mutual understanding, and respect among diverse individuals.
- Build citizenship, personal responsibility, and leadership abilities.
- Foster appreciation of diversity.
- Improve communication and conflict resolution skills.
PROGRAM EVALUATION
In 2004 the National Conference for Community and Justice conducted a survey research study of 158 participants to evaluate the Anytown program in relation to its stated objectives.
RESULTS:
Overall Rating: Participants were asked to rate the program “On a scale of 1-10 (1 being lowest), how would you rate the Anytown experience?”
99% rated the program as a positive experience (6 or higher)
96% rated the program very positively (8 or higher)
Growth Measure: Participants were asked to identify to what extent the Anytown program increased specific skills, knowledge and attitudes on a scale of 1-5.
97% reported growth in thier leadership ability
96% reported improvement in self-esteem
98% reported improvement of communication skills
97% reported better understanding of diversity
97% reported growth in conflict resolution skills
96% reported growth in their respect for other faiths
97% reported improvements in personal empowerment
The research demonstrates the positive impact on participants. The program’s strongest outcome is the participants’ improved understanding of diversity and differences, which is, in turn, a strong source of leadership skill, empowerment, communication and conflict resolution.
