Terminology Check
Youth and staff identified four components that make youth engagement authentic: 1) youth-adult partnerships; 2) preparation; 3) opportunities; and 4) support.
This report examines how the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative® approaches youth engagement. It draws on more than 100 survey and interview responses across four sites to explore what authentically engaging youth looks like and how it benefits youth. It also shares recommendations for expanding the practice.
Authentic youth engagement is pivotal to the success of the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative—and any youth-serving organization or system. Though it can be challenging to engage youth in foster care who are struggling to meet basic needs, the results of these efforts are significant: Authentically engaged young people demonstrate increased self-confidence and are better prepared to advocate for themselves and others with similar experiences.