The National League of Cities, with support from the Surdna Foundation, has created a guide to help city officials promote youth civic engagement in municipal government. "Authentic Youth Civic Engagement: A Guide for Municipal Leaders", offers municipal officials a framework for developing and improving youth civic engagement in their communities.
Getting youth involved in our communities is something of interest to all of us. Keeping our youth involved can help to create a sense of place from within as they make decisions on where to make their home as they become adults. Many local officials across the state are involved with youth programs and many local units even have their own youth representatives to council.
Providing a setting in which the community is seen as welcoming and inviting to youth can lead to a wide range of benefits and allow young people to have a impact on issues in your town. Its why the League's "Center for 21st Century Communities" has identified K-16 education has one of the key assets of vibrant places and a avenue for collaboration and why a pre-con session at convention is specifically geared for local officials to learn about strategies for youth.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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