How do you engage youth in partnerships?

Engaging young people in partnership activities makes sense because they can provide their own perspective on your initiatives, and help you create programs that hit the mark. Giving young people the chance to exercise and build leadership skills can ultimately help them become responsible, civic-minded adults.

There are many roles for teens and young adults in partnerships. They can serve as media and community spokespersons, help develop web sites and Web 2.0 tools such as blogs and Facebook pages, and help recruit other young people in the community.

To engage youth:

• Include adult partners who understand the value of engaging youth and who will continue to support their long-term involvement in partnership activities.
• Establish relationships with youth-serving organizations. Many represent global youth concerns and can put you in touch with youth leaders. Engage youth early to help craft goals, objectives, strategies, and activities that are relevant to their needs.
• Provide youth with training and guidance to better ensure their full participation in partnership planning, and supply similar training to adults who don't have direct experience working with young people.
• Offer incentives, awards, salary, or recognition for teen partnership involvement.
• Consider the logistics of involving youth in meetings. Do they need transportation? Are meetings held after school, in the evenings, or on weekends so they can participate? Is child care needed?

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