NCJ Number
114977
Date Published
1988
Length
29 pages
Annotation
Young people are simultaneously an asset to and a responsibility of communities.
Abstract
Responsive communities, together with good schools and strong families, are part of a triad that can support youth in their transition to work and adulthood. Youth-oriented community action initiated by State and municipal Governments, civic organizations, and grass roots and nationally affiliated youth organizations need to be more widely replicated and supported. The numerous youth-serving agencies must work together more effectively. Community-based youth activities are needed that concentrate on the developmental needs of all youth and that respond to young people's ideas and involve them in program planning and implementation. Also needed are youth involvement in local crime prevention activities, local governance, and other youth service opportunities. Innovative financing methods must be developed to meet youth's developmental needs, offer preventive services, and respond to specific needs. Also needed are comprehensive and coordinated delivery systems, developed through public and private efforts, to ensure that all young people and their families have access to needed services. Finally, a study should be conducted of the nation's youth organizations and what can be done to aid them in their essential mission. 111 footnotes.