AACA's Youth Initiative began in July 2008 with a Summer Leadership Program.
Youth participants in the program ranged in age from 14 to 18 and many
became founders of AACA's Youth Council. Youth Council members serve for
one year during which time they have the opportunity to strengthen their
leadership skills, participate in action learning projects, reach out to
other youth, and advise AACA on the mission and goals of the Youth
Initiative. AACA's Youth Action Learning Project is open to all youth (14
to 18) who want to participate. More information on the 2008-2009 project
will be posted soon.


AACA's Youth Initiative was founded on the principles of youth empowerment
based on youth participation, which seeks to equalize power between youth
and adults.



Currently AACA's Youth Initiative is developing young leaders for

• Civic engagement
• Leadership roles
• Community research action
• Personal growth and transformation