It was incredible. The trip opened my mind and changed how people saw me. Being from a poorer neighborhood when I got to college a lot of my classmates who don’t look like me aren’t thinking I’ve been around the block or traveled or a bunch of things that are very normal for them. But when I tell them I’ve traveled to India they’re like… ‘Whoa India. That’s crazy!’”
Using a data-driven assessment tool created by The PEAR Institute, teens who participated in an Experiential Travel Program reported statistically significant positive growth in nearly all measures of social and emotional development such as the following:
- 95% positive change in reflection, learning interest and critical thinking
- 85% positive change in action orientation, perseverance, optimism, academic motivation and relationships with peers.
- 80% positive change in emotional control, assertiveness and empathy
- 70% positive change in relationships with adults
Using surveys administered by Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston staff , we have found the following:
- Over 90% experienced an increase in positive support and friendship
- 88% became more interested in learning about other countries
- 85% felt they were more culturally competent
- 80% are more aware of how global issues impact their lives
- 78% increased their leadership skills
- 75% became interested in getting more involved at their Boys & Girls Club
A No Barriers survey developed by researchers at Brigham Young University, showed that teens AFTER completing their two-week trip reported the following:
- 95% of participants agreed to the statement “I have a responsibility to contribute to something bigger than myself”
- 100% of participants said “Being part of a team makes me a stronger individual”
- 85% of participants said “I am able to focus on solutions rather than problems”
This is without a doubt the best program at our Club.”
