Inner-City Acheivement: Recognizing the Issues

Written by: Sara Smith (Americorps VISTA)

There are so many times where youth don't feel like their needs are being met. But if we (youth working organizations) are striving everyday to "fix" or resolve these issues, why aren't youth today vibrant and fulfilled?

I have an answer, simple as it may be...we don't know much about the reality of youth, because we are not living their lives every day. We can say things like, "I have been there before", or "I know what you mean", but realistically, times have changed. What we may have looked forward to, or what we may have needed as young adults growing up is rapidly changing.

How do we find the answer?
ASK THEM! Be a friend, and not a warden. Youth don't like when you talk at them, they love when you let them talk!

Want to know their "truth"?
Get on their "level" and try to understand what the issues are that they are facing. Too many times are we prescribing solutions that don't attack the true problems. Let's stop fighting a blind fight.  

Want to know the truth?
Invite your youth out to our "#WereJustSayin" event that will be held at WFYI on Novermber 16th, and let them have a voice, listen to their concerns, and find the RIGHT solution.

If you are a youth serving organization but don't have the time to bring youth? 
Email me at scox@mccoyouth.org, we will have special seating for organizations that wish to come out and lend an ear!