“Understanding and engaging youth at all levels is a practical strategy to connect with them,” said Laurie Jo Wallace, presenter of “Youth Engagement: Involving Young People In Our Work.” She defined youth as ages 10-20. She offered some suggestions to learn more about youth culture, “Ask questions, understand social media like Facebook and texting and keep an open mind.”
The group exercise at the afternoon breakout session was asked to define music, food, fashion/clothes, activities and language on a wall chart. The ideas posted defined barriers to youth/adult collaboration. “How can kids ever learn about conflict resolution through email or texting, it’s all one-way?” asked a participant. The ideas also identified common ground for collaboration. “The variety in food has created openness in culture,” said a participant.
The strategies for youth empowerment include involving youth in planning, implementing and evaluating. The key to building relationships with youth are: provide structures for one-to-one interaction; offer food; allow time for team building; make time to get to know them and really listen; forgive mistakes; and have fun and laugh.
