Radical Roving Recreation (RRR) is an exciting new initiative in the Office of Parks and Recreation (OPR) to address some of the most neglected of Oakland's youth. We acknowledge that while traditional recreation programs are effective for many young people, there are those kids whose lives and experiences make them less trusting of human service programs and also make them harder to serve. We are committed to serving every Oakland youth who has the capacity to benefit from our programs, regardless of their history.
Mission
The goal of OPR's Radical Roving Recreation Program is to change the attitudes of misguided and misdirected youth in Oakland by meeting them where they are - emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Many of the youth in RRR have been abandoned by their families, schools and mainstream community centers. Many have known fear, hunger, homelessness and hopelessness. RRR rejoins these disconnected youth with a new community through celebrating holidays, life successes and introducing them to new opportunities and experiences. By engaging youth in a supportive community, RRR prevents criminal behavior and reduces the number of youth in the juvenile justice system.
Program Design
RRR program environments are safe, inviting, and inclusive. We are dealing with radical youth, aged 13 to 21, with diverse backgrounds and experiences. To keep them engaged, we have created radical programming. Some of our regular RRR programs include:
- Monday night Yoga class. The emotional and physical challenges of yoga are used as a method to teach relaxation, trust, and anger management.
- Footwear Design 510. Youth receive instruction in sketching, development, and customization of footwear.
- Dinner at 6. Each week, RRR youth meet together to cook healthy and affordable meals, and then sit down to share the meal together and enjoy good discussion. On occasion, special guests are invited to share their own insights on various topics.
- And many other programs, including Studio Art, Gardening, Dragon Boating, Open Mic Night, and Teen Advisory Board.
Strategies
Radical Roving utilizes the following program strategies to reach this population:
- Provide program spaces that are safe and encourage healthier lifestyles.
- Empower youth to lead the dialogue of change.
- Engage the entire community from the bottom up.
- Address youth needs, including: education, housing, and family stability.
Outcomes
The ultimate goal of RRR is to prevent criminal behavior and reduce the number of youth in the juvenile justice system. We measure our success by tracking specific indicators such as completion of a GED, reduced criminal recidivism, and employment.
For more information on the Radical Roving Recreation program, call George Henderson, Program Director, at (510) 867-0735 or contact us at (510) 238-7275 or email: parksandrec@oaklandnet.com
