| |
|
Benefits of youth involvement in
decision-making
For organizations
- Broadens the representativeness of existing
decision-making.
Youth make up a significant proportion of the
community. They can bring unique perspectives and experiences to
the table. They also bring innovative ideas and dynamic
perspectives about the future.
- Helps the organization make better decisions.
A broader
range of views and experience can energize the decision-making
process.
- Helps the organization improve its services for youth.
Better understanding the concerns of youth allows
organizations to better serve this population group.
- Improves the image of organizations.
Creating a
youth-friendly organization inspires the confidence of young
users, clients and stakeholders and enhances the reputation and
credibility of the organization.
- Helps attract other youth as volunteers.
Involving youth as
decision-makers signals that the organization is serious about
dealing with youth respectfully and encourages young people to
assume a variety of roles.
For youth
- Builds self-esteem and self-confidence.
Assuming
responsibility for guiding an organization provides opportunities
for leadership and is an important step in a young person's
personal development.
- Develops important skills.
Leadership, critical thinking,
problem solving, consensus building and networking are among the
skills that can grow out of participating in the decision-making
process.
- Provides experience relevant to education and
employment.
Undertaking decision-making roles enables young
people to fulfill community involvement requirements for
graduation while teaching skills that are not always learned in
the classroom. It also helps them plan their careers, build their
résumés and gain skills that will be valuable on the job.
- Gives youth a creative and productive outlet for their energy
and creativity.
Youth are sometimes stereotyped as being
cynical or apathetic. The responsibility that comes with
decision-making will prove these stereotypes wrong. Inviting young
decision-makers to the table creates an opportunity for them to be
appreciated for what they have to offer.
- Connects youth to other youth and to their
community.
Giving young people a stake in decision-making
improves their understanding of citizenship and their connection
to other individuals and institutions within their
community.
For communities
- Overcomes negative stereotypes about youth and creates new
respect for young people.
It allows them to demonstrate their
skills and commitment and end the preconceptions and mistrust that
often cloud the relationship between youth and adult society. It
also builds inter-generational partnerships that benefit the whole
community.
- Strengthens community capacity and local democracy.
Giving
youth a stake in decision-making builds a broader base of citizen
involvement and creates stronger, more inclusive communities.
Youth engagement also builds commitment to the whole range of
organizations that serve communities in so many different ways.
Everyone benefits when organizations are effective and well
run.
|
|
Toronto maps | Get involved | Toronto links | 311 | Comment | Subscribe | Privacy statement