This new volume contains completely original material. Written from the theoretical to practical application by an author who has started, operated, researched, consulted with rites programs & trained hundreds of people in African American rites of passage program development & evaluation methods nation-wide. Specific how-to information on meeting unexpected challenges & providing program evaluation. Chapters contain: initiation & rites of passage through the ages & world cultures; the African American sacred history & task; research on rites programs across the U.S.; elders' roles; development & use of rituals; retreats & assessments; mentors & sponsors; families & parents; spirituality & health; the four areas of preparedness for adults; the basics of program evaluation & application to rites of passages programs including sample instruments. This volume is considered "a seminal document for those who are seriously interested in the positive socialization of African American youth" - Useni Eugene Perkins. To order contact: Baobab Associates, Inc. 7614 16th Street, N. W. Washington, D.C. 20012-1406; Phone (202) 726-0560; FAX (202) 829-4784.