A Step-by-Step Guide to Empowering Youth Leadership and Fostering Community Change
“Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” - Fred Rogers
In the early hours of June 27, 2022, a tragic event unfolded in Akron when police officers fatally shot 25-year-old Jayland Walker following an attempted traffic stop and ensuing car chase. This incident had the potential to deeply divide our community. However, in response, Akron’s residents united, with the school district playing a pivotal role in fostering solidarity.
One notable initiative was Safe Spaces: Healing Conversations, an event designed by youth for youth and the broader community. The gathering featured workshops with licensed professional counselors, shared meals, music, dancing, and giveaways. It served as a tribute to Jayland and marked the beginning of a collective healing process, laying the groundwork for systematic changes within the city.
The Student Voice Project within Akron Schools expanded from an initial group of eight to encompass all high students across the district. This growth led to the formation of community partnerships, amplifying student voices throughout the city and initiating meaningful changes emphasizing youth perspectives. A highlight of their involvement was their pivotal role in the Student Voice Initiative, which secured a $10,000 grant for peer mediation training aimed at students in grades 6-12. Using their leadership skills, the students collected data on school discipline policies, made presentations to the Akron Public Schools Board during public meetings, and collaborated with school leaders to ensure these policies are equitable and consistently applied.
It was truly an honor to lead the Student Voice Initiative and work alongside these dedicated students to make a lasting impact on our community.
Starting an effective youth program involves careful planning and a focus on engagement, impact, and sustainability. Here are three key steps to get you started:
1. Identify Needs and Set Clear Goals
Research and Understand Needs: Talk to students, parents, and community members to understand the specific needs of the youth in your target group. What challenges are they facing? What opportunities would benefit them most?
Set Clear and Measurable Goals: Based on the identified needs, set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). These goals will guide the program and help evaluate its success.
2. Create a Strong Framework and Engage Stakeholders
Design Program Activities: Develop activities that align with your goals, ensuring they are engaging, educational, and appropriate for the age group. Consider different learning styles and interests.
Involve Stakeholders: Include key figures such as teachers, local leaders, parents, and youth in the planning process. Their support and involvement will make the program more relevant and sustainable.
Establish Leadership and Roles: Select qualified mentors or leaders who can guide and support the youth, ensuring they have the training and resources needed to lead effectively.
3. Implement, Monitor, and Evaluate
Pilot and Launch: Start with a small-scale pilot or test run of your program to gauge interest and make adjustments based on feedback. Launch the full program once you’ve ironed out any issues.
Monitor Progress: Regularly check on how well the program is running, gather feedback from participants and leaders, and make necessary adjustments.
Evaluate Success and Sustainability: At the end of the program cycle, assess whether goals were met, and determine what worked well and what needs improvement. Use this information to refine the program for future success.
By staying focused on the needs of the youth, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and continuously evaluating the program’s impact, you can create a youth program that’s effective and meaningful in the long term.
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