External assets are the positive experiences young people receive from the world around them. These 20 assets are about supporting and empowering young people, about setting boundaries and expectations, and about positive and constructive use of young people's time. External assets identify important roles that families, schools, congregations, neighbourhoods, and youth organizations can play in promoting healthy development.

External assets of particular interest include:

• community values youth
• youth as resources
• positive peer influence
• service to others

The 20 internal assets identify those characteristics and behaviours that reflect positive internal growth and development of young people. These assets are about positive values and identities, social competencies, and commitment to learning. The internal Developmental Assets will help young people make thoughtful and positive choices and, in turn, be better prepared for situations in life that challenge their inner strength and confidence.

Through the work of Youth Net, CMHA is working with youth to focus on this framework in a productive, enticing way to which youth want to respond. The work is new to us and is slow and gradual, but if you’re considered youth (12 to 30 years old) and are interested in helping, please contact us.

Thrive ! The Canadian Centre for Positive Youth Development is the Canadian partner of the Search Institute. Thrive’s mission is provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to develop healthy, capable young people of strong character.

The Institute is a U.S.-based, independent non-profit organization whose mission is to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to promote healthy children, youth, and communities. To accomplish this mission, the institute generates and communicates new knowledge, and brings together community, state, and national leaders. At the heart of the institute's work is the framework of 40 Developmental Assets.