A growing national movement contends that not only young people benefit when they take on decision-making roles in communities and organizations, but so do adults and the institutions in which young people are involved. A groundbreaking study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison now shows these assertions to be on target. While much research exists to demonstrate that young people benefit from the movement to bring youth to the tables where important decisions are made, this is the first study to examine the impact on adults, organizations, and communities. The in-depth examination of data collected from 19 youth and 29 adults from 15 organizations across the country provides convincing proof that young people can, and very often do, have powerful and positive effects on adults and organizations. Youth infusion also has effects on adults, including changed attitudes toward young people, enhanced commitment to organizations, increased sense of competence in working with youth, and a stronger sense of community connectedness.
Young people clarify the organization's mission.
Organizations become more connected and responsive to youth in the community. Organizations place greater value on inclusivity and representation. Organizations are more appealing to potential funders. Organizations reach out to the community. The study was funded by Surdna Foundation, Inc. and was also supported by University of Wisconsin Extension.