Sometimes it takes a child to raise a village. Yes, you read that correctly. Young people all over the world have become leaders in their communities. They bring big ideas for change, frank assessments of problems, and a willingness to work hard in order to get results.
For these young people, merely volunteering is not enough. A passion for social justice guides their efforts. It makes them want to build their community, not just serve it. They seek to create a more equitable and inclusive society. And they won’t stop until they achieve their goals.
The very process of getting involved makes young people stronger and healthier. They work in partnership with adults, become leaders on issues that matter to them, and develop skills that will be useful for the rest of their lives.
This booklet explores the complex links between youth development, community engagement, and social justice. The Innovation Center has been studying and strengthening these links through partnerships with local and national organizations, universities, foundations, and businesses. We are learning what works in big cities, small towns, and rural communities. The stories in this book highlight the work of our partners to engage, empower, and strengthen young people and their communities.