Youth-Guided Definition

The Youth-Guided definition was developed by Youth M.O.V.E. National, in conjunction with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. It guides all the work that we do here at Youth MOVE National and you will often hear it referred often by us and in the field. It's a good idea to become familiar with this term as it will guide much of the work that you will be doing in your communities as well.

Remember This Definition!

Youth Guided means that young people have the right to be empowered, educated, and given a decision making role in the care of their own lives as well as the policies and procedures governing care for all youth in the community, state and nation.  This includes giving young people a sustainable voice and then listening to that voice. Youth guided organizations create safe environments that enable young people to gain self sustainability in accordance with the cultures and beliefs with which they identify.  Further, a youth guided approach recognizes that there is a continuum of power that should be shared with young people based on their understanding and maturity in a strength based change process. Youth guided organizations recognize that this process should be fun and worthwhile.