The Carment Kiara Youth Organization is an established non-profit 501 (c)3 in Austin, Texas, founded by Carment Kiara. As a child, Mr. Kiara experienced the hardships of what living in poverty is like without positive guidance and encouragement. This is what motivated him to form a youth and track program in 1978 that focuses on underprivileged youth. He has committed himself to ensuring that ethnicity, zip code, and income would not be the determining factor for a child's future.
CK's T.R.A.C.K. is an evidence-based youth development program that targets underprivileged youth that live in families that are exonomically disadvantaged, are at risk of dropping out of school, and are at risk for engaging in behaviors requiring supervision. CK's T.R.A.C.K. is designed to provide instruction and guidance to youth in making healthy and beneficial life choices.
CK's T.R.A.C.K. program model is comprised of the following eight interventions:
CK's T.R.A.C.K. program model is comprised of the following eight interventions:
- Wellness: Training in the fundamentals of physical health, good nutrition, regular exercise, no substance abuse or dependence, avoiding violence, no drinking and driving.
- Tutoring: Improving the academic achievement of youth through increasing their knowledge and skills and time devoted to school work.
- Character Education: Teaching and demonstrating ethical behavior, honesty, keeping promises, avoiding crime, obeying the law, integrity, respect, demonstrating care and concern for others, and taking responsibility for oneself.
- Life Skills: Facilitating activities on decision-making, emotional self regulation, interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, and financial responsibility.
- Youth Entrepreneurship Program: Overseeing youth projects that increases critical thinking, problem solving, and academic achievement.
- Community Service Learning: Conducting community activities that include volunteer work, political participation, and charitable giving.
- Group Counseling and Support: Facilitating support by a professional licensed counselor to assist youth with psychological and emotional well-being, positive self identity, life satisfaction, positive outlook and sense of purpose.
- Healthy Family and Social Relationships: Bonding and frequent interactions with a parent, with peer(s); involvement in groups such as community sports teams, church groups, music groups, and dance classes. This component also includes parental involvement.
