Western States Youth Services Network
What is Community Youth Development?
Community Youth Development (CYD) builds on the African proverb, "It takes an entire village to raise a child." It recognizes that today's youth need the support that comes from an entire community, not just a school or a handful of programs and activities. As in a tight-knit village, CYD promotes mutual responsibility for and interdependence among communities, youth and families. One of those responsibilities is the development of every youth's assets -- his/her talents, skills, interests and family.
Developing capable youth, strong families and responsible communities requires involving young people in every possible way in the programs and institutions that impact their lives. They become more invested in what they learn, more committed to attaining their goals, and develop valuable leadership skills and experience in the process.
Simultaneously, families, organizations and communities benefit from the creativity, abilities and energy of young people engaged as resources.
The Western States Youth Services Network (WSYSN) is particularly interested in ensuring that opportunities for growth and development be available to youth who face greater odds because of abuse, neglect, family conflicts, lack of resources and other life challenges. Each youth's specific needs must be met whether during a stable period or a crisis. The CYD approach places emphasis on healing, as well as the positive aspects of every youth's experience.
The WSYSN is using the CYD approach to strengthen the abilities of staff in agencies working with youth, especially those in high-risk situations. Our Learning Resource Teams (LRT) from around the country have been meeting twice a year since 1997. Nancy Fastenau, Executive Director of the Western States Youth Services Network and Linda Lyons from San Diego are the lead facilitators for the Regional LRT.
The curriculum includes youth development, facilitation skills, organizational and community development, and youth involvement. Participants in the training and WSYSN staff are already offering introductory and intermediate level workshops on CYD topics. Additionally, the CYD approach is being integrated into many WSYSN member programs and services. As an initiator of CYD, we are proud to see other national organizations embracing this crucial philosophy.
Please contact The Western States Network (707) 763-2213 or e-mail us at WSYSN@aol.com for more information and assistance.
CYD focuses on lifelong learning in which youth develop skills and competencies in order to be contributing members of their communities and society. CYD creates a genuine appreciation for their talents and capabilities and establishes the learning structures and opportunities that will enable youth to develop strong values, attachment to their communities, and tools for adulthood.