Youth Adult Partnership

Transformative results occur when young people help lead social change efforts. Involving young people brings fresh ideas, new talents and critical perspectives to the table. It engages them as respected, contributing members of the community. In turn, this inclusion and respect can act as an antidote to alienation, antisocial behaviors, and the tendency to leave their community to seek better opportunities.

Authentic youth engagement requires a shift in the mental models that both adults and youth have about each other. It requires respecting and valuing the unique gifts that come from each group, and valuing the positive results that come from working together.

The Innovation Center offers consulting, training and tools to help organizations of all sizes integrate youth adult partnership into their work.