At the heart of community is a sense of belonging and a feeling of connectedness. This connectedness is the foundation on which we build security and trust for the people and places that surround us.
There is no doubt that our communities have changed over the years. As more and more tales of tragedy hit the headlines, the same question arises, “What is happening to our communities?”
Much like a parent or guardian, communities help shape, nurture, and raise us. Furthermore, the culture within the community sets the tone for how we see ourselves within a broader context. This is especially true for young people. Are their voices being heard? Do we ask for their input? Do we view them as gifts that will make a positive impact on the future?
Unfortunately, in our current culture youth have very limited connections to adults outside their own family; they are nameless faces in their own neighborhoods. Despite the often heroic efforts of educators, parents, youth workers, faith-based organizations, and social service agencies, according to Search Institute, only 22 percent of young people ages, 11-18 perceive that adults in their community value their opinions and input. The results of the 2015 Maine Integrated Youth Survey, although slightly more optimistic, support the Search Institute findings by revealing only 51.9 percent of 14-18 years old report feeling like they matter to the people in their community.
With nearly half of Aroostook County youth feeling like they do not matter in our communities, there is much work to be done. To build communities where all youth regardless of their backgrounds, skills, abilities, socioeconomic status, or race/ethnicity can thrive is neither difficult nor time-consuming. The promotion of healthy communities demands a new vocabulary, new insight, and a new focus. No longer can we talk about “fixing” young people. Instead, we must be proficient at naming their strengths and talents and creating opportunities within our communities where their gifts can be utilized and developed. We must shift our energy from “at risk” youth to “thriving” youth.
Change is necessary and begins with the individuals who make up our communities. I invite youth and adults, parents/guardians, neighbors, professionals, and everyday citizens to look young people in the eye and say “hello” as you pass them.
Let’s work together to create opportunities for multigenerational activities. Find ways to invite youth to serve in leadership roles within the community. Ask for their opinion on changes affecting them in the community.
Most importantly, as adults we must model the kind of values that we hope the next generation will carry forth. Neil Postman once wrote, “Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see.” What message are you sending the young people in your life? What message is your community as a whole sending to youth?
Now is the time to intentionally frame our communities, to recreate a sense of belonging and connectedness, and to build safe places where all young people have the opportunity to thrive.
Allison Heidorn is outreach and marketing coordinator for Healthy Aroostook/Drug Free Communities. She can be reached at 207-999-1014.
