The National Youth Literacy Demonstration Project operated a demonstration school in Surrey, BC for three years. Results from that study provide a model of promising practices for programs serving at-risk youth who struggle with literacy. This report describes the project's approach to learning and research, outlines results, and explains the challenges faced by researchers, practitioners and students. This report is intended principally for the use of practitioners and administrators seeking to understand and implement effective ways to engage young people in literacy development, promote social and emotional growth, and increase academic achievement.