Your comment that a weekly diversionary activity “cannot possibly happen or change their outlook on what life has to offer for their futures and the betterment of society as a whole” is quite incorrect in my experience although perhaps this too is a confusion in terms between what I would define as ‘diversionary’ - my definition being activities that aim to provide young people with options beyond what they would otherwise be able to access - typically activities like sports or performing arts with a goo structure and well linked to the needs and resources of the local community - activities like these, particularly when under the leadership or with the support of local adults, can very definitely make a considerable impact on young peoples outlook

We had some research on our own work in this field that you can download here:

http://www.breakfastsociety.com/2008/02/research-report-into-training-for-young-peoples-community-involvement/

A weekly ‘diversionary activity’ diverts for as long as the activity lasts. So long as there is no longer-term commitment or goal in place, then this change in the minds of young people cannot possibly happen or change their outlook on what life has to offer for their futures and the betterment of society as a whole.

I do agree however that programmes should seek to help young people become effective citizens and to be more involved with their communities. I don’t think its correct to make a judgement on the limited amount of information that is permitted to be place here though. The activities listed can potentially be effective and powerful learning/developmental mediums but this does depend on how they are delivered - the emphasis needs to be on transferable skills, not simply participating in the activities.

It would be great to hear more about the logic of change.

How does being involved in a media project help young people become re-engaged? What are the key ingredients here…

Is it the media skills? Or the relationship with workers? Or something else?