About

Introduction

Our innovative methodology combines SEL, the Harkness Method, PYD, and Conflict Resolution to create a holistic and supportive environment for youth development. This approach is designed to address the various challenges faced by youth, particularly those in at-risk communities, and to equip them with the tools and skills necessary for success.

SEL focuses on developing five core competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. By integrating SEL into our methodology, we help youth develop essential life skills that contribute to their overall well-being and success.

The Harkness Method emphasizes student-centered, discussion-based learning, promoting critical thinking, communication skills, and collaborative problem-solving. This method empowers youth to take an active role in their education and personal development.

PYD is an approach that focuses on fostering the strengths and potential of youth, rather than addressing deficits. We provide opportunities for skill development, leadership, and community engagement to support positive growth and development.

Teaching effective conflict resolution skills is crucial for helping youth navigate interpersonal challenges and prevent conflicts from escalating. By integrating conflict resolution into our methodology, we equip youth with the tools to handle disputes constructively.

Our Values

Youth Organization

SRTM through its various programs supports organize youth around issues that impact them directly and their community. Through SRTM youth organizing, students work in teams to plan activities and organize for change.

Civic Engagement

Students can volunteer, intern, and participate in SRTM youth programming to find opportunities to engage in the community for various activities.

Community Connectedness

SRTM strives to ensure that all the youth participating in its programs learn, understand, and engage with the community they live in.

Service Learning

SRTM incorporates organizing, action, service, and reflection so that students are constantly aware of their contributions and the importance of giving back to the local community.

Networking and Collaboration

SRTM’s work is highly dependent on an extensive network of collaboration with organizations, nonprofits, and resources that are available to help us advance our work, as well as providing our students with a diverse array of positive outlets.

Organization History

SRTM was founded in 2010 by Shaneka Boucher, who continues to serve as the President and Founder. The organization originally aimed to support students on their journey to college by providing small scholarships. Over time, SRTM expanded its mission, shifting focus to providing direct services in schools to meet growing needs. Today, SRTM serves four schools in Camden, reaching over 350 students in grades K-8, as well as 150+ students in the Work Ready Program. Additionally, SRTM engages various youth in short-term projects related to juvenile and environmental justice. Currently, SRTM is positively impacting hundreds of students across Camden city and county.

Our mission to improve youth outcomes by integrating Social Emotional Learning (SEL), the Harkness Method, Positive Youth Development (PYD), and Conflict Resolution into a comprehensive methodology serves as a preventive tool to reduce the school-to-prison pipeline and empower youth ages 5-24 to thrive in their local communities. By partnering with schools, key community stakeholders, and employing youth from the communities we serve we ensure that our programs are relevant, effective, and deeply rooted in the local context.

Our Mission

SRTM’s mission is to Engage, Employ and Empower underprivileged youth with the skills and support they need to become positive leaders in their communities by convening and partnering with local stakeholders to provide resources, networking, and increased opportunities.

Our Vision

SRTM’s vision is to build a society of socially aware, responsible, and active adults that care about their community, participate in issues that affect their neighborhoods, and become the next generation of educated leaders.

Meet Our Founder

Shaneka M. Boucher is a dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience in government programs, education leadership, and community development. Known for her strategic vision and ability to create systems that drive success, Shaneka has dedicated her career to empowering underprivileged communities through innovative initiatives and impactful policies.

As a City Council Member for Camden, New Jersey, Shaneka served over 75,000 constituents in the state’s 12th largest city, overseeing a $280 million budget. She sponsored and passed data-driven legislation focusing on public safety, housing, and environmental justice. As Chair of the Legislative Committee, she championed equity within city contracts and advanced mutually beneficial policies through collaboration with stakeholders.

Shaneka’s achievements extend to education, where she has excelled in roles such as Director of Enrollment and Community Relations at Mastery Charter School. There, she increased enrollment by over 50%, secured $60,000 in funding within six months, and forged critical partnerships with community colleges to expand educational opportunities. At CSMI LLC, she founded enrollment and school programs departments, raised $500,000 in funding, and developed childcare programs that grossed $400,000 annually.

Her extensive nonprofit experience includes founding Social Responsibility Through Me, which provides scholarships, internships, and volunteer opportunities for students, and serving on multiple boards, including Heart of Camden and Rising Stars. A dedicated advocate for equity and community revitalization, Shaneka has successfully raised over $25 million for education, public safety, and community development projects in urban areas across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Shaneka holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Hunter College. She is also a certified Business Administrator in New Jersey and a Notary Public. Her affiliations include the Junior League of Philadelphia, Camden City Parking Authority, and various other community-focused organizations.

With expertise in project management, strategic planning, and relationship building, Shaneka continues to drive transformational change, leaving a lasting impact on the communities she serves. She has one daughter Eva who is 18 years old and attending college.