Creating Inclusive Educational Programming to Increase Youth Belonging

Partnering to create inclusive educational programming to increase youth belonging encourages us to think about barriers to participation. The overview will allow programs to come up with strategies for inclusivity.

Belonging is a fundamental need for youth of all ages and abilities. By creating a space where youth feel physically and emotionally safe, adult mentors also create a space for them to form positive relationships with their peers and adult role models. These relationships can be the foundation for healthy decision-making, learning life skills and navigating how to manage risks. While belonging is important for all youth, it may take some intentionality to create a sense of belonging for youth who come from particular populations and this is especially true in virtual/in-person settings youth may be limited to as a result of COVID-19. This presentation will present ideas for program collaboration, effective virtual/in-person programming, including youth of all abilities, and working with mentors. FAU CARD program will also discuss lessons learned, best practices, training tools, virtual platforms, and program evaluation.