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The role of young people in effecting change isn’t new — indeed, it can be seen in many of history’s key social movements, such as the struggle for civil and human rights in the U.S. and abroad.

Today, on neighborhood streets, in formal institutions and over the invisible threads of the online community, young people are developing skills and using tools that will enable them to become the world’s next generation of nonprofit, for-profit and governmental leaders.

The Mott Foundation has long supported efforts that inspire and empower youth to meet successfully the challenges facing them and their communities. Examples of this youth leadership in action are explored in three features, which highlight Mott-funded initiatives:

Life Service Action: Finding the leader in every student

The After-School All-Stars, with funding from Mott, provides middle-school students with the training and opportunities to lead the charge in improving their communities. [Read more.]

Grantmaking by and for young people has gone global

YouthBank, with the support of Mott, is helping young people in dozens of countries develop the skills and resources to become good grantmakers and local leaders. [Read more.]

Youth organizers help spark hope in the Motor City

Two young community leaders with the Detroit-based Harriett Tubman Center — a Mott grantee — are engaging residents in creating sustainable community improvements. [Watch the video.]