CiU Approach
CiU recognizes that people with multiple barriers, limited support networks and those that have experienced trauma often need additional assistance to build inner resources before they can successfully build and maintain the outer resources needed for further training, employment and life.
Our approach is built on the belief that self-development, barrier removal and cultivating a practice of self-care will build the necessary foundations for acquiring the skills needed for success in life and in work. Our curriculum materials encourage learners to understand themselves; what motivates them, where they want to go, and how they might get there. The workshops also provide participants with a set of concrete tools to build self-awareness, regulate their emotions, and interact with others so they are better equipped for the journey. And better equipped with the skills they need to succeed over time.
All of the Change it Up materials are informed by a large body of research on how humans actually learn, how the brain can change and how people can mitigate the lasting effects of trauma to thrive in their own lives. This is where the richness of the approach can be life changing; learning by doing; understanding that we are not born smart or stupid – but with an innate capacity to grow and change; knowing that we can address the traumas we have stored in our minds and bodies and start to heal and thrive. And using research-based ways to hack our brain/body patterns and responses to free us for really living our lives for true success.
CiU is also relationship driven. Learners develop a belief in themselves because staff believe wholeheartedly in them. And it might well be the first time in their lives that anyone has. It is about building trust and creating a safe and inclusive environment. Providing real support and walking alongside participants in their process. Not directing. Not telling. But supporting, encouraging, and believing.
CiU encourages facilitation that avoids zero tolerance or three times and you’re out. It’s about understanding that we are all working with what we have available to us in this moment. Sometimes people need more time, more chances and more support. Like quitting smoking, it rarely works the first time – or the third time. But maybe the seventh time is the magic number. Because you’re ready. Because now you have the mindset and the skills that you need. Because you have the support.
Change it Up encourages an intense collaboration of staff and participants. One that builds connections, relationships, confidence and leaders. One that strengthens individuals and the communities where they live. One that changes lives.
The following concepts are the foundation of the CiU approach to Facilitation. These principles are the lens through which all activities and interactions occur.
1. CiU is Strength-Based.
When the starting point is what a person lacks, it creates dependency, and dependence is disempowering. It lowers expectations and stops us from seeing a person’s unique capabilities and strengths – which limits opportunities for change. When we start with successes, strengths, and abilities, however, it changes the helping relationship from fixing someone, to nurturing someone’s innate potential.
Instead of dwelling on problems and seeing hopelessness, we focus on opportunity, empowerment, capacity building and hope. At CiU, we believe in starting where people are, with the strengths they already have; providing extensive opportunities for participants to experience success and focusing on the boundless nature of human potential. Every staff member needs to authentically demonstrate an unshakable belief in learner capabilities and in their ability to learn and change.
2. CiU is Holistic.
As human beings we bring all of us with us wherever we go. Facilitating growth and removing barriers must include engaging and developing all aspects of ourselves as people (emotional, physical, spiritual and intellectual) and it must acknowledge that these parts of us are interconnected. If we are worried about our safety, or haven’t eaten since yesterday, writing a resume will not seem important.
CiU assists participants and Facilitators in exploring all aspects of health, wellbeing and brain function so they have the tools they need for their life journey and employment path. We encourage exposure to – and hands on application of – multiple strategies to help us all be our best selves and live fulfilling lives.
3. CiU is Learner Centered.
One size does not fit all. Participants need to be partners in their own learning, to have their experiences validated, their talents utilized, and their needs addressed and respected. Facilitators need to understand that every participant is coming with a unique story, which they will continue to write and alter during and after their time with you.
In practice, that means that program inclusions, projects, and daily practices are decided together, creating an environment of choice. This means the content is relevant and participants are far more invested. Programming is individualized and instruction is differentiated to reflect the needs of each participant.
4. CiU is Hands-on.
Humans learn by experiencing things, and by reflecting on those experiences to find meaning. We could get fancy and call this Constructivist Learning Theory, but in the end, the important thing is that active learning and engaged participation really matter. We learn by doing.
In practice, this means including things like real life work experience and community projects. It also means using materials like the CiU Curriculum of interactive workshops that encourages participants to fully explore concepts and ideas, building deep understanding that facilitates real change. Additionally, it can include integrating and actively practicing all kinds of wellness activities to help people find a real-world self-care practice that they can take with them for life.
5. CiU is Trauma Aware.
Humans learn by experiencing things, and by reflecting on those experiences to find meaning. We could get fancy and call this Constructivist Learning Theory, but in the end, the important thing is that active learning and engaged participation really matter. We learn by doing.
In practice, this means including things like real life work experience and community projects. It also means using materials like the CiU Curriculum of interactive workshops that encourages participants to fully explore concepts and ideas, building deep understanding that facilitates real change. Additionally, it can include integrating and actively practicing all kinds of wellness activities to help people find a real-world self-care practice that they can take with them for life.