This theme identifies if young people are supported in a way that will maximize their potential to have an impact on decisions. Are multiple young people participating consistently over time? Is their preparation supported, do meetings happen as planned? Is there a ‘pipeline’, an opportunity for young people to develop leadership skills?
Means to achieve this theme:
1. Sufficient and consistent representation
2. Appropriate representation
3. Support for thorough preparation
4. Support for meaningful participation
5. Leadership development
For this theme Colorado ranked at the national average. However in looking at the means to achieve this theme the one area of strength was sufficient and consistent representation. Respondents’ felt multiple Y/YA as leaders were engaged in advising or involved decision-making. These Y/YA’s remained in these roles long enough to develop experience and confidence.
Are Y/YA well-prepared to participate in advisory meetings and other activities related to decision making?
Are young people provided training and coaching to understand meeting processes and to learn about topics that will be discussed?
Is there an identified point person who is responsible for providing these young people with information and support prior to meetings?
Have opportunities been created for young people to develop their individual leadership and participation skills within a community of supportive peers (e.g., Y/YA leadership group, Y/YA advisory board, Y/YA subcommittee, leadership training)?
Are Y/YA aware of opportunities to participate in advisory or leadership roles and decision-making?
CO Youth Leadership Manual
Youth Advocate to Advocate for Youth
True Colors - Personality Test
Click Resource:
Youth Involvement in Systems of Care
Report: Engaging Youth
Integrating Youth Guided and Value
Practice Matters - Preparing for Youth Engagement
To learn more about Youth MOVE National and the Y-VAL CLICK HERE