WHAT’S a SPARK?
And do I have one?
So, what is a spark? A person’s spark is what they are really passionate about, an activity that unleashes their energy and joy, one that may allow them to really express their personality and perhaps make their own unique contribution to the world.
Each of us has (or can have) at least one spark. For most of us, our spark is revealed or discovered over time, through many opportunities and experiences, and we often need caring adults to help us see and develop it.
Here in Northfield, guided by the work of the Search Institute in Minneapolis, we have developed a SPARKS Initiative that allows youth to explore the concept of SPARKS in many different settings. Take a look at the following video to see some examples of SPARKS in action in Northfield, MN.
How can I get involved and learn more about SPARKS?
Northfield HCI supports many organizations as SPARKS sites through curricula, project ideas, access to SPARKS-specific mini-grants, staff training and more. Current SPARKS sites include:
- Bethel Lutheran Church
- Greenvale Park Elementary School
- Northfield High School – 9th Grade Academy
- Northfield ALC
- the Middle School Youth Center
- First UCC Church
If you think your site/organization might be interested in the SPARKS initiative, contact Janet Lewis Muth at janet@growinguphealthy.org
If you’d like to learn more about SPARKS, check out the resource page.
