How Do I Involve Youth in My Community?

How can I encourage youth to become involved in my community?

Develop opportunities where you work, volunteer, or in your neighbourhood.
  • Invite youth to participate in something that you are doing.
  • Welcome youth to help out in your program, a service that you provide, or an organizational activity that falls within your area of responsibility. In short, open doors.
  • Facilitate their participation in discussions and decision-making processes (re: a program, activity, service, etc.) where their input would be appreciated.
  • Encourage other adults to spread the word and invite youth into their programs and activities.
  • Strive for diversity! Involve youth who may not otherwise be included.   
     

What are some benefits from being involved that will encourage youth to participate ?

Young people who have the opportunity to get involved develop participation skills, knowledge, and experience. This helps them to:

  • build self confidence to step out of their comfort zone and try something new or different.
  • learn to work with others, both peers and adults.
  • learn how to take action; i.e., to step up to leadership roles.
  • develop an ethic of volunteerism and civic participation/contribution.

Feedback from youth involved in their communities?

 “I loved the sense of pride I gained from helping facilitate large-scale projects, giving back to the community and working with children.” (Claire Piccinin, Youth Leader, Girls on the Move)

“Adults can let youth know what opportunities are available to youth, support their efforts and let them know they are there to help and to listen.” (Youth Participant, Bedford World Café, 2005)

Who should I contact if my organization has an idea about involving youth in the community?

Check out HRM’s online Youth Tool Kit. Visit: www.halifax.ca/recreation/YouthEngagementToolkit.html

The Tool Kit, a joint initiative with HeartWood, Centre for Community Youth Development, is full of ideas to support adults and organizations in youth engagement. If your organization is looking for a presentation on the Tool Kit, call your local community centre listed on our website: http://www.halifax.ca/recreation/index.html

Other opportunities

The Regional Youth Advisory Committee
The Regional Youth Advisory Committee consists of 12 youth from each Community Council district in HRM. If you want youth input on any of your events, programs and other projects, please e-mail them at hrmyouth@halifax.ca or call 490-5451.

hrmyouth.ca
Another great way to reach youth and let them know you want their participation in and/or input at your next event or meeting is to "Sumbit Your Event" online at www.hrmyouth.ca.  This site is designed by youth for youth aged 13-19 years.

For more ideas and suggestions, visit www.hrmyouth.ca, call 490-5451 or e-mail hrmyouth@halifax.ca

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