This overemphasis on experience can affect recruiting, but it can also play out in meetings. We need to recognize that young people do have valuable skills and knowledge and make room for different kinds and levels of experience. These values and assumptions privilege only certain types of experiences and they don’t leave room for young people. In addition, certain types of experiences like attending certain schools or working in a particular profession tend to be valued more than others. It is often assumed that more experience is always better. This tactic of asking for a small commitment first works for recruiting volunteers of other ages as well. After they’ve completed a small task, follow up by asking for a larger commitment. You could solicit comments and suggestions from groups you’re already connected with through a poll or online forum. Perhaps you’re trying to make sure your kick-off event is appealing to a younger crowd. Think about some ways young people could contribute without committing to a time-consuming meeting schedule. Research shows that people are more willing to commit to a large task after agreeing to a small one. If the club aligns with the goal of your project, they may be willing to devote some time to recruiting or organizing an event. If you’re looking to recruit high school and college students, get in contact with a club at the school or on campus.
Evenings and/or weekends might be the best time to meet for many people. Think about the group you’re trying to reach and the scheduling challenges they might face. Recognize that “young people” as a group are very diverse –they have different levels of education, racial/ethnic backgrounds, and lifestyles. If they are going to be giving up some of their time, they need to know it will be time well spent. Some may be responsible for caring for younger siblings, or they may have young children of their own. They have packed schedules with school, extracurricular activities, work, and helping out at home.
When you address these barriers, you’re being inclusive of many groups of people.Įveryone is busy, including young people. It’s important to note that young people aren’t the only ones that might face some of these challenges. We’ve compiled a list of five common challenges, along with possible solutions you can implement right away. But, you may be running across challenges you haven’t found solutions for yet. Many of you are already working to try to engage more young people, and no doubt this is a step in the right direction. So this is our challenge to you – adults with any kind of power: take youth engagement to the next level. The reality today is that most positions of power are held by adults.
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