Yes, it is more work and takes more time to develop the relationships you need to bring youth and adults together as partners on community projects.  Is it worth the extra effort?  If your community wants to attract and retain young people, it very likely is worth it.

Young people have incredible talents to bring to any group or organization.  Community leaders often get comfortable with using status quo methods to make decisions or determine outcomes.  Youth approach problem solving and decision making in new ways.  They also bring different points of view and direct questioning to the group process – often resulting in a more diverse and inclusive view of the many possibilities for approaching opportunities and challenges.

If killing your community is your ultimate goal, then Doug Griffiths, a young, well-spoken member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta lists “not involving youth” as a great way to do just that.  Mr. Griffiths sites youth as anyone age 35 and younger, and strongly advises not relegating that group to the sidelines when it comes to making community decisions.  Young adults have energy and ideas, are great volunteers, and are the future of your community.