This toolkit was published by the Center for the Study of Social Policy.

HERE’S HOW THE CREATORS DESCRIBE THIS TOOLKIT:

Young people are key to effective community decision making and positive outcomes for local residents. This publication explores principles and strategies for engaging youth and young adults in decisions that affect them and the wellbeing of their communities.

This product reflects the commitment of the International Initiative for Children, Youth, and Families to engage young people. The Initiative – an international network of policy makers, managers, practitioners, and researchers – puts the community and its residents at the centre of its approach to improving results for children, youth, and families.

In 2003, recognizing the potential of young people to change their communities, the Initiative began a vital effort to involve youth from its member nations. A group of youth and adults from Israel, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States began working together to plan and conduct an International Learning Exchange focused on youth involvement in community change. In November 2004, young people and adults from eight countries participated in the Learning Exchange. This toolkit grew out of that event, and the Initiative continues its work to promote youth engagement as a cornerstone of strong communities.