Why Our Work Is Needed
We have a crisis in America. We are losing too many of our children and youth. America's youth report that they are more disconnected and isolated and feel less valued than at any point in history. Across the country, youth are given little or no voice in defining the issues, or designing and implementing possible solutions. Even though we know that our children and youth are America's most precious natural resource, instead of celebrating them as gifts of energy, passion, and hope, we view them with suspicion in public places, and places of commerce and deny them meaningful roles in community and civic life. Research findings point toward a profound rupture in the developmental infrastructure (ecology) of far too many kids' lives. Basic forms of relationships, connectedness, engagement, and participation crucial for growing up healthy are absent for most young people.
Our concerns are confirmed by a survey on youth attitudes conducted by the National Association of Secretaries of State, which concludes: "Young people today lack interest, trust and knowledge about American politics, politicians, and public life generally. In these and other respects, the future of American democracy seems gloomy indeed."
We believe this alleged apathy has its roots in the lack of opportunity. A report put out by Public/Private Ventures states that nine out of ten young people are willing to work to improve their neighborhood. However, more than 50% believed that adults do listen to, and many even "fear" teens.
Lack of connectedness to others, their school, and their community is the root of so many negative attitudes and behaviors.
America needs engaged citizens, and engaged citizens are made and not born. Research reports the lack of opportunities, skill building, and meaningful recognition for young people to participate in civic life. In turn, research also reports how young people have the capacity to make meaningful contributions to America long before they cast their first vote.