MicroSociety
2011 marks the completion of the third year in which Burst has supported the implementation of a youth entrepreneurship after-school program, called MicroSociety, at the Skyway/Renton Boys & Girls Club (renamed by club youth as the Town of Renway). Over the last two years, the Renway program has evolved into a successful poverty reduction effort for youth in low-income communities that targets overcoming vulnerability, social isolation, insecurity, lack of self-respect, and lack of access to information that accompanies being without sufficient income.
After two years of participation from low-income elementary and middle school children, Burst found the Renway program demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial capabilities that translated into positive academic and behavioral growth. This success led to a national award for best local program, and led Burst to explore expanding the work in partnership with MicroSociety Inc. and King County Boys & Girls Club, which will begin in 2011. Expansion will include the development of a training curriculum that allows for replication in Boys & Girls Clubs, both locally and nationally.
Methodology
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Pilot Programs
We strategically allocate resources to conduct scalable or replicable pilot programs in order to demonstrate effective solutions that assist individuals with building both personal and financial assets that promote long term sustainable financial independence.
Burst for Prosperity Stories
Microsociety
Microsociety improves goal setting and academic performance
The Renton/Skyway Boys and Girls Club is Burst for Prosperity's MicroSociety pilot program. Executive Director Meg Pitman describes how MicroSociety has increased students' self-confidence and improved their goal-setting, leadership, and academic skills.
