Youth Leadership & Advocacy ↘

Our program uses creative and experiential learning activities to promote and develop healthy relationships amongst their peers and the community.

YW Youth Leadership Program

Creating community leaders

The YW Youth Leadership Program is designed for teens who want to strengthen their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of social issues, and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Participants engage in evidence-informed violence prevention education, leadership development, and peer engagement opportunities that encourage critical thinking, self-awareness, and community involvement.

Participants Will Explore Topics Such As:

  • Identity, Culture, and Socialization

  • Status, Power, Privilege, and Equity

  • Root Causes and Prevention of Violence

  • Restorative Justice Practices

  • Mental Health and Substance Use Harm Reduction

  • Healthy Relationships and Communication

  • Recognizing and Responding to Unhealthy or Abusive Relationships

  • Boundaries, Consent, and Personal Safety

  • Gender, Sexuality, and Inclusion

  • Reproductive Health, Contraception, and STI Prevention

  • Media Literacy and Porn Literacy

  • Youth Rights, Resources, and Help-Seeking Skills

  • Advocacy, Civic Engagement, and Community Leadership

Program Outcomes

Through participation in the program, youth develop:

  • Leadership and public speaking skills

  • Healthy relationship and communication skills

  • Increased confidence and self-advocacy

  • Critical thinking and decision-making abilities

  • Greater understanding of violence prevention and social justice

  • Knowledge of community resources and support systems

  • Skills to serve as positive role models and peer leaders

Why It Matters

Young people play a critical role in creating safer, healthier communities. By investing in youth leadership and violence prevention education, we help participants build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to foster respectful relationships, challenge harmful norms, and become advocates for positive change.

Get Involved

Interested in learning more about the Youth Leadership Program or partnering with us to support youth leadership and violence prevention efforts? Contact us to learn about upcoming program opportunities and partnership options.

YWCA currently hosts our Youth Leadership Program in the fall, spring, and summer (the summer program is part of City of Evanston's Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program).

To apply, contact:

The Violence & Prevention team at prevention@ywca-ens.org.

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