Youth as Resources (YAR) strives to engage young people in meaningful community service through the involvement of committed youth and adults at the community level. YAR represents an unprecedented union between youth development and community development that benefits the entire community. YAR is guided by the belief that all youth can act as leaders and decision makers in meeting critical commun
ity needs. When youth know that their community needs them, they realize they can be partners with adults in solving some of society’s most pressing needs, perceive that responsible actions will improve both the community’s and their own situation, and feel better about themselves. YAR believes:
Youth have untapped talents that can benefit them and their community. Youth can and will act as responsible partners with adults at all levels of service. Youth involved with community service projects or youth/adult boards begin to feel a sense of connection, civic responsibility, and self-worth. When adults develop a more positive view of youth, they recognize and utilize the skills of youth and shift their perspective of youth from service objects to service providers that have significant roles to play. Youth as Resources provides small grants to youth lead projects in the community
