Youth-Adult Partnerships

The loss of connected fabric that binds communities has been noted and studied by political scientists, [Page 1160]sociologists, human ecologists, and practitioners (Potapchuk, Crocker, Schechter, & Boogaard, 1998). Yet several scholars have suggested that communities can be strengthened by building upon existing assets instead of focusing on deficits (Kretzmann & McKnight, 1990). One major resource that often goes unnoticed is young people. Many adults have biased opinions, viewing youth as answer seekers not having the initiative to use power or serve as community leaders (Zeldin, 2000). Youth who are accepted as partners (with adults) in the community can, indeed, make significant contributions.

When youth are civically engaged, communities benefit by allowing young people to apply knowledge of their communities to help address local needs. Furthermore, youth involvement encourages higher levels of leadership potential and personal development, which spark a greater sense of confidence, empowerment, and positive links to the community (Lerner, Dowling, & Anderson, 2003). In addition, young people can develop life skills (e.g., decision making, communication, problem solving) that will promote more responsibility and the capacity to address civic issues relating to social, economic, and environmental problems (Israel & Ilvento, 1995). When youth participate in community development efforts, the likelihood for positive youth-adult partnerships is increased (Kurth-Schai, 1988). However, few studies have explored the impact of youth civic participation on adults, families, communities, and local organizations (Zeldin, 2000). Moreover, the phenomenon behind youth-adult partnerships has not been well-defined or scientifically researched.

Through the years, several organizations (e.g., 4-H, Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts) have relied on the guidance of adults and the competent leadership of young people who serve to make changes within their communities. Although adults are often credited for most leadership roles, many of this country's memorable events were sparked by the resolution of youth civic engagement. During the 1950s through the 1970s (particularly during the civil rights era), young people were instrumental in changing society. Often seen as defiant radicals, they remained tenacious in directing and conducting their leadership in a manner that consequentially demanded the attention and support of adults (Carson, 1995). Not only were these partnerships actively producing results, but both youth and adults benefited from learning through social action, a frequently overlooked strength of youth and adults working together. Today, several organizations thrive with a mission-driven purpose committed to bringing youth to the decision-making table (e.g., Innovation Center's At The Table Initiative, Philadelphia Student Union, Youth On Board, YouthBuild USA).

Youth are the “experts” in assessing their needs and what directly affects their peers and families. Recognizing their abilities and allowing them to contribute cultivates community empowerment by enlisting the aid of residents who truly desire to make a difference. Young people across the country are taking their agendas to local, state, and national officials to promote change. Many credit this surge to the assistance of adult allies who are fully supportive of these efforts (Zeldin, 2000).