The Rites of Passage Initiative is a multi-level program aimed to address risk factors that make adolescents more susceptible to developing violent behavior, such as social or cognitive problems, associating with peers who are violent, beliefs that support the use of violence, and academic failure or poor commitment to school and community.

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• Strengthen the capacity of students to develop positive behavior and resist violence by addressing social, emotional, and behavior problems, skill-building, leadership development, talents/interests, and self-confidence.

• To host parental empowerment meetings

• Conduct a Rites of Passage induction ceremony for program participants to become a member of a positive social group of his/her peers

• Develop partnerships with agencies and employers to provide educational and vocational advancement training based on students interests

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