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.

Most communities have not thought of a succession plan for city councils or county commissioners.  It might be interesting to note the average age of these groups in your area.  While experience and the wisdom of elders is important, combining these qualities with the energy and ideas of young people gives decision-making bodies a much better balance.  The combination of those who know a community’s history and current challenges, and those who want to plan for the community they want to live in twenty years from now, can be powerful.

Does your community have a succession plan for main street businesses?  What happens when the grocery store owner retires?  Few have considered talking to young people about returning home after their education, or engaging them in a youth entrepreneurship program in high school.  It may be well worth the effort to seek out young people to be part of the planning process and help them identify opportunities.

If ending your community is your plan, don’t engage youth, don’t find reasons for them to stay, and don’t allow them to serve on decision-making boards. 

Source:  Griffith, D, Clemmer, K, “Thirteen Ways to Kill a Community,” Frontenac House of Calgary, 2011.