Youth Development & Leadership
This topic explores the benefits of youth development and leadership, and how youth can get involved in the many opportunities available to them for developing leadership skills.
Introduction
"Youth development" involves building on key aspects of a young
person’s identity that are influenced by both internal and external
factors. Youth development at its most basic level, is any opportunity that
promotes healthy adolescent development, which includes a sense of belonging and
purpose in life, development of a positive self-image, and the ability to attain
future adult goals. It also includes identifying barriers and challenges and the
ability to navigate through these. The most effective youth development programs
and opportunities emphasize and build upon the strengths and assets of young
people.
"Youth leadership" is any opportunity or activity that builds a
young person’s skills, including the ability to actively create and affect
change. A young person doesn’t necessarily have to lead an activity to be a
leader. Youth leadership can also be about using leadership ability to influence
others and to create positive change (definitions adapted from the Search
Institute http://www.search-institute.org/).
Addressing youth development and leadership issues is critical for
families, youth with disabilities, and others who support them in achieving
their future goals. Improving access and participation in this area
provides:
- youth with the skills and abilities, both personally and within the
community, to achieve a successful transition into adult life
- families with a pathway to assist their children in planning for the
future
- ideas and avenues to implement specific leadership activities
- a solid foundation to help youth become involved, responsible, and in
charge of planning for their own future
As you think about development and leadership activities for youth with
disabilities, you may want to consider the following questions:
- What are you and your organization currently doing to support the
inclusion of youth with disabilities in a wide variety of development and
leadership activities?
- What resources are available within your local community to support
inclusion of youth with disabilities in these types of activities and
opportunities?
- What additional resources or supports may be necessary to increase the
involvement of youth with disabilities to be active participants in leadership
and development?
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