How to Get Youth Engaged in the Community

When supporting communities with a vibrant and sustainable future in mind, youth participation is essential. When young people are active in their communities, they benefit both themselves and the society around them.

Why It's a Good Idea for Young People to Be Active in Their Community

The growth of a community involves more than just physical updates, to parks or streets. It also requires an investment in relationships, local culture, and the well-being of its people. Young people, with their fresh perspectives and boundless energy, are a perfect fit to lead this change. By becoming involved, they learn that they have value in their community that can impact their surroundings. Whether they’re working on urban farming projects, organizing neighborhood clean-ups, or advocating for policy changes, youth involvement helps develop a sense of ownership and pride in their community.

Why Their Local Community is the Best Place to Begin

The local community is where young people are most familiar. They know the streets, the people, and the challenges their neighborhood faces. This intimate connection gives them a unique advantage in understanding what needs to change and how to address those needs. Local community engagement also fosters a sense of belonging, giving youth a reason to care about improving their immediate environment. Since they are woven into the fabric of the community, their involvement is more authentic, and their efforts are likely to resonate more deeply.

Advantages to Youth: Leadership, Risk Reduction, and a Stronger Future

There are many benefits of community involvement for young people. First, they can gain valuable leadership skills by taking on active roles in projects, like organizing events or leading a team. These transferable skills can be utilized throughout their education, careers, and personal relationships.

Community engagement also helps to reduce risky behaviors. Studies show that young people who participate in positive community activities are less likely to engage in substance abuse, violence, or other harmful activities. By channeling their energy into positive endeavors, they’re more likely to make constructive choices.

Additionally, youth who are active in their communities are better prepared for the transition into adulthood. They learn responsibility, accountability, and the importance of working with others toward common goals. These life skills give them a leg up in navigating the challenges of adulthood, from managing finances to building strong social networks.

How Adults Can Help Youth Get Involved

While young people are eager to make a difference, they often need the support and encouragement of adults. Too often, youth are seen as recipients of help rather than contributors to the community. Adults can change this mindset by actively involving youth in decision-making processes and empowering them to take leadership roles, and providing opportunities through mentoring, volunteering, or facilitating workshops. When adults create spaces where youth can lead and contribute, they show that they trust young people’s abilities and are invested in their growth. Additionally, adults can be open to the innovative ideas that youth bring to the table, allowing them to shape the community in ways that reflect their needs and visions.

Getting youth involved in their communities is one of the most effective ways to create positive, lasting change. The benefits for young people—leadership, resilience, and the ability to navigate adulthood—are invaluable, and the community itself stands to thrive with fresh ideas and energy. When adults see youth as partners, and offer them the support they need, they foster an environment where everyone can grow.

At Nationwide Children’s Hospital, we strive to help every child in our community reach their full potential. One way we are doing that is through Healthy Neighborhoods Healthy Families (HNHF), a program focused on removing barriers and supporting the health and well-being of children and families in Columbus’ South Side and Linden neighborhoods.