SayPro strongly advocates for the inclusion of youth in shaping their communities. In partnership with the United States Peace Corps, SayPro is working to strengthen the role of local youth in decision-making processes at all levels of community development. SayPro conducts leadership training and civic education programs to equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate meaningfully in governance. With support from Peace Corps volunteers, SayPro also facilitates youth advisory councils that work alongside local governments. SayPro believes that communities thrive when youth voices are respected and integrated into long-term planning. The partnership enables a shared vision where young leaders help define priorities and create inclusive solutions.
SayPro ensures these youth councils are diverse and representative of different backgrounds, including gender, ethnicity, and educational levels. SayPro works closely with Peace Corps volunteers to develop inclusive engagement strategies that make all youth feel welcome. Activities include public debates, town hall meetings, and local policy reviews, giving youth a platform to voice their ideas. SayPro also provides communication training so young participants can effectively advocate for their proposals. Through mentorship and support, SayPro prepares youth to take on advisory and leadership roles confidently. The Peace Corps adds value by sharing global best practices in youth engagement. SayPro uses this international insight to adapt programs to local contexts, resulting in more impactful youth participation.
SayPro promotes intergenerational collaboration by organizing community roundtables where youth and elders share perspectives on development. SayPro fosters respect and cooperation, ensuring that youth are not seen as mere observers but as co-creators of change. The Peace Corps assists SayPro in identifying historical community patterns, which helps youth councils avoid repeating past mistakes. SayPro emphasizes ethical leadership, transparency, and inclusivity in all decision-making spaces. By training both youth and adults in these values, SayPro builds mutual trust. This two-way process ensures that youth engagement is not tokenistic but transformative. SayPro also integrates digital tools that allow youth to contribute through online platforms, further expanding reach and inclusivity.
SayPro evaluates the effectiveness of these initiatives through surveys, community impact reports, and youth satisfaction scores. SayPro uses this data to continually refine its approach and scale successful models to other regions. The Peace Corps’ continued involvement ensures each program is culturally sensitive and community-led. SayPro’s work results in tangible policy changes, such as increased youth budgets and representation in local councils. By embedding youth in every stage of decision-making, SayPro not only empowers individuals but also strengthens democracy and social cohesion. This collaboration with the Peace Corps reflects SayPro’s commitment to community development that is sustainable, inclusive, and youth-driven. Through this initiative, SayPro reaffirms that youth are not just the future—they are the present.