Teen pregnancy rates are down. Young people have a vested interest in their community's well-being, and we can certainly use their help to improve the safety and quality of our neighborhoods. Again and again youth have demonstrated their ability to contribute in such meaningful ways as revamping city parks, leading public education campaigns to reduce child abuse, and providing companionship to housebound senior citizens. Adults need to engage young people in making their community a safer, more caring place to be. Bring youth in as part of the solution.
Parents can offer to help organize a neighborhood paint-out where graffiti is present.
Law enforcement officers can make special efforts to build relationships with youth. Teachers and school administrators can reach out to nonprofit agencies and community organizations to provide volunteer opportunities and help youth learn about community issues. In other words, ask, and youth will deliver, in thoughtful, energetic, and effective ways. Rate this story and send your comments to the editor. Subscriptions to the print edition of Catalyst are free.