Ashley Price Involving youth in their communities is important for healthy social development, enriched family life, and neighborhood vitality. Youth can contribute to the civic life of their communities by working in political campaigns, participating in local government meetings, supporting causes, fundraising for charities, serving on boards, and advising decisionmakers on issues of concern to young people. Civic involvement often gives youth new friends and interests, a heightened sense of responsibility to peers and the community, improved leadership skills, increased self-esteem, and a strengthened sense of accomplishment.
Communities benefit from the creative new ideas, energy, and enthusiasm of youth.
Two activities that enhance civic involvement are Youth Advisory Councils and Youth Town Hall Meetings. YAC's offer youth civic roles, a voice in the legislative process, and opportunities to learn about the legislative process firsthand. YAC's give policymakers the opportunity to learn about youth by working with them. YAC members, policymakers, and their staffs discuss youth issues and pending legislation at regular meetings or through letters, conference calls, e-mail messages, online chats, or videoconferences. YAC members support youth initiatives, work on community service projects, help policymakers organize civic events, and offer advice on legislative and policy issues.