SayPro Support and Engagement Plan
January SCDR.4.9.4 – 5-Day Skill Development Camp
Focus: Life and Social Skills Development
Objective:
To create a safe, inclusive, and motivating environment where participants feel supported throughout the camp and are actively encouraged to engage in all learning activities—enhancing both personal development and group cohesion.
1. Participant Support Structure
A. Pre-Camp Engagement and Communication
- Welcome Calls or Messages: Sent before the camp to introduce participants to the team and set expectations.
- Orientation Session: Conducted on Day 1 to review camp rules, support channels, and ways to participate.
- Participant Handbook: Includes contact info for support staff, daily schedule, expectations, and reflection pages.
B. On-Site/Online Support Team
- Support Coordinators: Assigned to monitor participant well-being, check in during breaks, and respond to personal or group concerns.
- Peer Mentors or Youth Leaders: Older youth or past SayPro participants trained to guide and support newcomers.
- Mental Health Point Person: A trained staff member available for confidential conversations and emotional support.
C. Accessibility & Inclusion Measures
- Provide:
- Language support (e.g., translators or bilingual facilitators)
- Quiet zones for overwhelmed participants
- Mobility and dietary accommodations
- Foster gender equity and cultural sensitivity in all sessions.
2. Fostering Active Participation
A. Inclusive Facilitation Techniques
- Encourage every voice through:
- Small group discussions
- Rotating group roles (note-taker, speaker, timekeeper)
- Anonymous input tools (question cards, polls)
- Use experiential learning that appeals to multiple learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic).
B. Recognition and Motivation
- Daily Shout-Outs: Recognize effort, creativity, and teamwork.
- Participation Badges or Points: Reward engagement through a light gamification system.
- Celebration Wall: Participants post proud moments or achievements throughout the camp.
C. Energy and Morale Boosters
- Energizers and Icebreakers at the start of each day/session.
- “Open Mic” or Talent Time: Optional end-of-day activity where participants can share stories, poems, or music.
- Group Reflection Circles: Used daily to share lessons learned and support one another.
3. Responsive Issue Management
A. Real-Time Feedback Mechanisms
- Suggestion Box (physical or digital): For participants to anonymously raise concerns or suggestions.
- Mid-Camp Feedback Session: Allows SayPro staff to adjust program delivery based on participant input.
- Check-in Cards: Colored cards used by participants during sessions to silently express if they need help, a break, or more clarity.
B. Escalation Protocol
- If a participant expresses a serious concern (e.g., bullying, emotional distress), the matter is:
- Logged confidentially
- Handled by the designated Support Coordinator or mental health contact
- Resolved according to SayPro’s Youth Protection Policy
4. Building a Sense of Belonging
A. Group Identity
- Participants are grouped into “teams” or “crews” with team names and slogans to promote camaraderie.
- Daily challenges build healthy competition and teamwork.
B. Shared Rituals and Traditions
- Morning Motivation Circles
- Closing Gratitude Session each day
- Final Day Certificate & Celebration Ceremony
Key Deliverables:
- Clear support systems in place before and during camp
- Active participation strategies integrated into all sessions
- Continuous emotional, physical, and psychological safety provided
- Participant feedback collected, analyzed, and acted upon
- Sense of community and ownership fostered throughout the 5 days
Leave a Reply