Assessing Participation in Youth Community Action Projects: Opportunities and Barriers

This study examined the extent of youth participation in community service, community development, and other types of community projects. Adult leaders (n = 70) of Youth Community Action (YCA) projects in New York State completed a survey about the activities of youth and barriers to participation. Overall, the youth were highly involved in project planning, decision making, leadership, and implementation activities but less involved in aspects of publicity and the organizational infrastructure such as financing and organizing meetings. Time was the most frequently mentioned barrier to youth participation. Some differences based on the age of participating youth were noted. Recommendations include identifying ways youth can take on greater roles and responsibilities, providing resources and support to adult leaders and youth, and finding ways for older and younger youth to work together. Topics for further research are suggested.