Youth Voices Driving State Reform

 From Padres y Jovenes Unidos

Youth Voices Driving State Reform. That's the title for the February 9th donor briefing on Positive School Climate and Discipline hosted by the Just and Fair Schools Fund in NYC.

Even though I think I am up-to-date on changes and trends in organizing,  I realized that I hadn't fully understood the giant leap forward that youth organizing has taken over the past five years.  We used to expect youth organizers to focus on an issue in one school or a very localized issue.  State policy...really?  That is a huge step forward and suggests that at least some youth organizing groups should be considered as equal to any other state advocacy efforts (and get the same level of funding!)

Just and Fair Schools Fund is bringing together youth/organizers from Padres y Jóvenes Unidos (Colorado) and Youth United for Change (Pennsylvania) to share insights on the tactical steps they’ve taken to influence state reforms, to be followed by a funders’ discussion on proven and promising strategies to fund similar efforts in further states.  These are two healthy organizations that have been consistently active for 15-20 years.  The Advancement Project has been a long-time partner for local organizing on these issues.  The JFSF, with support from Atlantic Philanthropies, Gill Foundation, and Falk Foundation, is playing a critical role in leveraging the accomplishments of these organizations and others across the nation. 

If you are a donor and interested in the briefing, please contact Don Cipriani at JFSF. And everyone can stay informed of great work around the country by signing up for the Just and Fair Schools Fund newsletter.