Building Blocks
The Casey Foundation's approach to authentic youth engagement includes four components: 1) youth-adult partnerships; 2) preparation; 3) opportunity; and 4) support.
A Framework for Effectively Partnering with Young People
By the Annie E. Casey Foundation
November 5, 2019
In This Guide on Authentic Youth Engagement, You'll Learn
- The four components of authentic youth engagement.
- How to assess the four components of authentic youth engagement.
- The benefits of authentic youth engagement.
- Where to learn more about supporting youth-adult partnerships.
Summary
This guide explores authentic youth engagement, including how it benefits young people, why it works and what it looks like in real life.
Key Takeaway
Remodeling underway: adolescent experiences can fuel extensive changes in a person’s brain
The practice of authentic youth engagement utilizes emerging research on adolescent brain development. It considers trauma’s impact on the brain, how the brain heals and the role that experiential learning plays in helping youth grow.
Findings & Stats
The Engagement Advantage
Authentically engaging young people helps build their self-esteem, leadership, advocacy and professional development skills while also increasing their influence and personal stake in the community.
Partnerships in Action
Examples of youth-adult partnerships include working together to develop case plans; co-designing and facilitating trainings to educate child welfare professionals; and co-presenting resources and information to community partners.
Statements & Quotations
When young people are authentically engaged, they should feel heard, respected, valued, trusted, appreciated, safe and comfortable.
Through this signature practice, young people use their individual and collective power and expertise in helping to shape a better future for those in and transitioning from foster care into adulthood.
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