Youth Participatory Action Research: Positive Youth Development with the Power to Ignite Change
Reflections on the implementation of a research fellowship for youth in three California communities.
A report highlighting the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) approach employed by the Gardner Center to promote positive youth development and foster change. By engaging young people as partners in research, the Center strengthens its understanding of youth perspectives and supports their well-being in partner communities. Through initiatives like the John W. Gardner Youth Action Research Fellowship, the Center leverages its expertise to empower high school and college students, enabling them to generate data that informs efforts for equitable youth outcomes while building their own competencies and sense of agency. This youth action research not only benefits organizations with valuable insights but also contributes to improved programs, stakeholder engagement, and strategic resource deployment.