All the chaos, cruelty, and cynicism can make it tempting to retreat to familiar surroundings and friends—often people your own age who may share similarly dystopian views. But I’m continually refueled when interacting with much younger minds, especially when talking about how “the world sucks.” These conversations may not always delve into history or generate profound insights. Instead, they offer a chance to see the world through different eyes. That wider lens reignites my brain.
Most organizations—often due to legal concerns—don’t bring people under age 18 into the heart of their operations. But there’s a rising tide pushing back against the idea that professionals and experts should substitute for the lived expertise of young people themselves.
“I am not becoming. I’m not in the making. I’m a full human being with thoughts and creativity and wisdom to offer.”
— Evelyn Monje, first high school employee hired by UP for Learning
Instead of being a burden, intergenerational collaboration uplifts everyone—from senior leaders to junior staff. Sophia Montemayor of Healthy Futures of Texas puts it best: “I genuinely love this work.” She describes her young collaborators as “battery chargers” and adds, “the evening meetings with these high school students make me forget how much I like to be in bed early.”
How can we help one another experience this same boost and joy? Light hearted and serious resources alike can offer strategies to navigate the complex dynamics of engaging young people in ways that enhance both credibility and effectiveness.
Will You Share Your Favorites?
We are collecting resources in all kinds of formats, including:
- Google slide(s) with a compelling quote or graphic
- IG post
- YouTube video
- Podcast or webinar
- Article
- Toolkit
- Book or dissertation
Please use this link to contribute your recommendations.
If your submission is included in our forthcoming 25 Cool Clever Youth Infusion Resources in 2025 (working title), you’ll receive a free copy!
In the meantime, here are several of our one-pagers:
16 ARGUMENTS TO BRING MINORS IN-HOUSE
Don’t keep your go-to resources to yourself—send them our way and help ignite a movement that values young people not just as future leaders, but as present-day partners. Many thanks! Wendy
Youth Infusion 