Measurable Results

We don't just fund programs. We deliver results.

An independent evaluation, conducted by the University of Calgary, proved a long-term, significant increase in emotional intelligence.

When the Werklunds realized they had discovered a catalyst for social change, the response was so compelling that the University of Calgary was commissioned to conduct a long-term, independent evaluation of the effectiveness of the program. In 2007, the study was completed and the University of Calgary found the results profound and unprecedented. Students maintained significant gains in the following areas:

• Understanding of the inner self
• Social awareness and interpersonal understanding
• Adapting to changes
• Emotionally intelligent behaviour
• Attaining goals and growing in competence
• Understanding feelings and emotions

University of Calgary Impact Study

The study shows that Empowering Minds™ Teen Leadership Breakthrough program promotes more positive social behaviour in teens by improving their self-concept and interpersonal relationships. Teens with these skills go on to have greater success in school and in life. "Evaluation research rarely demonstrates results of this nature," said Dr. Anne McKeough, a professor in the Division of Applied Psychology who conducted the study for the University of Calgary. "The significant long-term effects of this program make the results of this study rare," McKeough added.

Students who participated in the Teen Leadership Breakthrough program had improved performance in the following areas:

Intrapersonal Emotional Quotient

The students who attended Teen Leadership Breakthrough had significant growth in intrapersonal understanding, this is also known as self-regard, self-expression, and assertiveness. One participant said, "I learned that it is important to believe in what you think and be confident in what you are saying."

Self-Concept Competence Domain

The students who attended Teen Leadership Breakthrough showed significant growth in competence. That is, they demonstrated a greater capacity to attain goals and function within their environment.

Self-Concept Affect Domain

The students who attended Teen Leadership Breakthrough also had growth in affective understanding, feelings toward self and others, as related to behaviors. One student said, "It made me more courageous because I had to not only trust other people but also go out of my comfort zone and still be strong."

More Information

Click below for more in depth discussion of the Werklund Foundation – Youth Leadership Study:

• Immediate Effects Report
• Six Weeks After Report
• Teen Leadership Study Interim Report
• Final Report on Leadership Training Effects – Six Months After
• Canadian Journal of School Psychology – December 2008 – Evaluation of Rapport's Teen Leadership Breakthrough Program