Engaging with Youth

Youth Philanthropy Task Force

This youth philanthropy resource was developed in collaboration with the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) Youth Philanthropy Task Force powered by Michigan youth, CMF members, and nonprofit leaders. For more information, see this brief summary of the task force work. 

Introduction

We in philanthropy are putting equity and inclusion at the center of our practices. Our goal is for communities to co-lead with youth of all ages and life experiences now in the variety of ways to be philanthropic and the roles they can take today and in the future. CMF shares the guides below to help your organization welcome youth voice and action with best practices for quality and meaningful expression of their time, talent, ties (network), testimony (speaking up), and treasure. 

Imagine the benefits to our communities and work when young people are deeply supported in using their time and creativity to lead and inspire change that advances the common good. Meaningful youth participation allows for more perspectives, different ideas, and better outcomes for everyone involved. The tools in this guide help us to be champions of youth and youth philanthropy. Why do we involve youth? Because we know they’ll make us better.    

We welcome you to use the resources below and give feedback so these living documents continue to provide quality opportunities and guidance. 

Best Practices and Guides

to Authentically Engage Youth Philanthropy

The guides below are designed for educators, parents, youth leaders, foundations, nonprofits, and community collaborators to invite youth into collaboration and innovation on activities that serve the community. The first guide gives general tips, and the three project guides provide models of practice.

Best Practices for Youth Engagement 

The tips and resources in this guide help amplify diverse youth voices and meaningful involvement in communities and organizations.
 

View Guide

Three Youth-Led Project Guides:

1. Youth-Led Community Challenge Guide: A Community Challenge is a themed initiative that brings diverse people and places together with a shared vision for the good of all. 

2. Youth-Led Service-Learning Project Guide: Service-learning is a specific process in which youth learn about their communities and how they can help others with their time and talent – their unique gift. 

3. Youth-Led Workshops Guide: This resource outlines how to nurture youth leadership in developing workshops that empower youth and adults to learn, collaborate, and activate others.