NCJ Number
209561
Date Published
2005
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This guide offers city leaders tips on promoting youth participation and involvement in local government.
Abstract
The health of our democracy depends upon the active engagement of youth in government at the local level. By promoting the participation of youth in local policy development, city leaders can make better decisions and wiser public investments in youth-oriented programming and policies. While there is no one “right” way to promote youth civic involvement, there are a number of options that have proved successful, such as establishing a youth council. Tips are offered on how to plan and implement a successful initiative designed to bolster youth participation in government; tips include the importance of involving schools and community-based organizations. Tips on how to work effectively with young people are also presented. Next, the guide turns to ideas on how to promote youth community service such as organizing a local youth service campaign and developing service learning programs through local school districts. Tips are presented on hosting a successful youth summit and starting a youth council. Examples of successful youth involvement initiatives from seven cities are presented.