Mission Statement

The Innovation Center for Community and Youth Development unleashes the potential of youth, adults, organizations, and communities to engage together in creating a just and equitable society.

We have succeeded in our mission when:

• Community organizations are stronger, more willing, and able to pursue and share innovative solutions to age-old problems.
• People of all ethnic, racial, gender, class, educational, and geographic backgrounds gain recognition and sufficient support to contribute to community and youth development and youth civic engagement.
• The field of community and youth development is more diverse and responsive to the courage, competence, and dedication of underrepresented youth.
• Young people are viewed as valued resources and partners in every community, and they respond to their respected status by devoting their tremendous energy and focus to the pursuit of social and economic justice.