Youth Workers’ Role in Engaging Youth in Health Advocacy for Community-Level Change

Authors

  • Maureen Toomey University of Idaho Extension
  • Carol Smathers Ohio State University Extension
  • Anne M. Iaccopucci University of California
  • Karen Johnston University of Delaware
  • Elaine Johannes Kansas State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2018.668

Keywords:

positive youth development, policy, system, and environment change, youth advocate, health, advocacy

Abstract

Youth development professionals and volunteers, here referred to collectively as “youth workers,” need to be prepared to engage young people as health advocates. Youth workers need an understanding of public health principles; policy, systems, environment change approaches; and effective youth–adult strategies to move from viewing youth as participants to engaged leaders in community health issues. Embracing youth as partners will create effective partnerships and yield substantial positive health impacts for the youth, adults, and their communities.

Author Biography

Maureen Toomey, University of Idaho Extension

Maureen Toomey, M.Ed. is an Area Extension Educator, Assistant Professor of Healthy Living with the University of Idaho, Extension, 4-H Youth Development.  Toomey is an experienced youth development educator, directing the statewide 4-H healthy living program focused on nutrition, social well-being and physical health through building strong partnerships within and outside the university system.

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Published

2018-09-18