Step-It-Up-2-Thrive Theory of Change

The curricula, activities and evaluation tools of the Step-It-Up-2-Thrive Theory of Change are based on four researched components: Mindset, Sparks, Goal Setting Habits and Self-Reflection.

Sparks
Identifying the inner passions, interests and talents of young people inspires them on the path to thriving. Sparks are what help youth see the potential within themselves.

Mindset
Youth who can view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow are more likely to thrive. When young people possess a growth mindset they are more resilient, better able to adapt to challenging situations and tend to get better grades in school.

Self-Reflection
Youth and adult partners engage in meaningful conversations about the strengths and challenges of individual young people. Through dialogue and internal evaluation exercises, youth develop goals toward increasing indicators of thriving that are founded on the 6 C's.

Goal Setting Habits
Expanding on their self-reflection exercises, youth develop goals, create a plan to reach them and make adjustments and adaptations to the goal or plan as challenges arise.

The California 4-H Thrive Framework

4-H projects and programs are focused around the core content of citizenship, healthy living, and science, engineering, and technology. These projects and programs happen within the context of thriving concepts: Sparks, Mindset, Self-Reflection and Goal Setting Habits. This intentional programmatic focus leads to adult and youth outcomes that are linked through active youth-adult partnerships. Youth who thrive have the capacity to positively impact the communities in which they live and work and play.