Engaging Young People in Community Decision-Making & Leadership Development
Many communities – including where we live, as well as communities that share an interest, like places of worship, historical associations, conservation groups and others – are struggling with how to engage younger people in their activities, their decisions and even their governance.
A year or so ago, we introduced Now What NH, an organization that is encouraging young adults and others to join land use boards. The organization provides all kinds of support for doing so. Here is the blog post in which we learn more about this initiative from Nick Taylor.
That’s great. But what about the rest of us, looking for ways to bring in the energy and new ideas of emerging adults in our communities?
I would say to start by asking them. Identify those who already might have a relationship with your organization or its work. Perhaps they are interested in the history of your town. Or they use your trails. Or your library. Then ask them if you can pick their brain. What might motivate them – or not? It might be scheduling. It might be the meetings themselves (we do need to face the idea that the standard format of meetings has a lot of dust and rust.) What could get them, and their friends, interested and even excited about participating and contributing?
We cannot make assumptions. But we will never know if we do not ask. And then invite them.
