Youth Organizing and Leadership
You have the power to lead and create real change. Explore tools, stories, and strategies to harness your potential as a youth leader through guides, games, and videos. Your ideas and actions can transform your community—now is the time to step up and make your voice heard! Access step-by-step support and practical resources to build your skills and confidence.
Just exploring - curious about advocacy
[Read] What Is Advocacy? (infographic)
[Watch] Understanding Advocacy and Action (Video, 3.5 minutes)
[Try] “What Type of Advocate Are You? (quick quiz)
[See] Examples: Speaking up for a friend, sharing an important issue online, hosting a petition, peer-to-peer support programs, challenging stereotypes in media
Ready to Learn More? Jump to Step 2
2. Building Skills & Knowledge
[Download] “An Advocate’s Toolkit” (intro guide)
[Download] “Youth Activist Toolkit” (intro guide)
[View] Campaign Strategy: Start Here (intro guide)
[Read] Online Organizing Tips: Digital 101
Taking Action? Jump to Step 3
3. Ready to Take Action
[Download] Volunteer or Event Organizer Toolkit
[Checklist] “Plan Your Meeting with Decision Makers”
[Resource] Safety at Protests & Online (Downloadable PDF)
[Template] Petitions, zines, and press releases
Want to Lead or Help Others? Jump to Step 4
4. Leading & Supporting Others
[View] Campaign Strategy: Start Here (intro guide)
[Read] What Makes a Good Leader?
[Watch] Persistent, Dedicated, and RESTLESS! A Leadership Challenge (short, 5-minute lessons)
[Join] Youth-led campaigns in Arizona: AZ Youth Climate Coalition, YADAH, Chispa Arizona Youth Program, March for Our Lives, Know Your IX, Gen Z for Change
Game On
The Project Honduras resource by Trócaire offers an interactive and educational experience that explores the challenges faced by communities in Honduras. It aims to build awareness and understanding of global justice and inequalities through storytelling and digital engagement.
The GO Goals Game by the United Nations Regional Information Centre (UNRIC) is an educational board game designed to teach children and young people about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a fun and engaging way, promoting awareness and understanding of global challenges.
The Games for Change website provides a curated collection of video and digital games designed to address social, civic, and environmental challenges. These games aim to inspire meaningful change through immersive experiences, storytelling, and interactive play.
Youth Leadership and Organizing Insights: Transformative TED Talks for Youth
"Youth Activism: Activating Your Voice" with Hannah Testa
Hannah Testa, a 17-year-old activist and founder of Hannah4Change, shares her journey as a youth leader tackling global issues and empowers young people to take action and create meaningful change in this inspiring TEDx talk.
"The Power of Youth - Changing the World" with Sanjana Buddi
High school senior Sanjana Buddi shares how youth-led organizing and collective action can create a powerful global impact, proving that young people have the ability to change the world in this inspiring TEDx talk.
"The critical importance of youth advocacy" with Lily Gardner
Lily Gardner, a passionate youth advocate from Eastern Kentucky, explores the power of student voices as thought leaders and change-makers, emphasizing their role in shaping education and economic futures in this compelling TEDx talk.
Upcoming Events/Opportunities for Youth Leadership
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Youth Leadership Conference
This free summer program provides a safe and fun environment for youth (ages 11-17) to learn how to succeed as a leader in their world.
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Hobbies Not Habits
This event is all about healthy hobbies instead of unhealthy habits!
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Copper Corridor Coalition
Empower youths to harness their strengths Initiative
