SEVEN Characteristics of Youth Work

1. Youth Work is an educational practice 

 "[Youth workers are] Primarily educators who engage with young people in diverse settings." Today, youth workers are found in various organizations whether it may be in after-school program or local nonprofit, private organizations. "Youth Workers build and sustain open and trusting relationships in order to create the conditions for learning." As professionals, youth workers ensure that the work setting is a friendly environment for all young participants to enjoy and learn.  

2. Youth Work is a social practice

  Youth Workers not only assist with educational activities but they are also there to guide young people with personal situations. "'Case work' approaches to working with young people, for example through the provision of personal information, advice, and guidance work." I currently work at William D'Abate Elementary School and Boys and Girls Club where often times students naturally approach me for advice or help. As an employee for nonprofit organizations, I notice children are more comfortable discussing their issue with a youth worker as a oppose to a teacher or guidance counselor.

3. Youth Work actively challenge inequality and work toward justice

 Youth workers promote social justice for young people in society generally.  

4. Where possible, young people choose to be involved

"Youth work is based on a voluntary engagement between practitioner and young person." Young people are often compelled to attend activities especially when close friends are actively involved. At the Boys and Girls Club, many of the participants chose to join the program. But once a while, there are parents that introduce their child to the program where they initially have no desire to be in the club. Eventually, the participants become involved and make everlasting friendships.  

5. Youth Work seeks to strengthen the voice and influence of young people

"Practitioners create opportunities for democratic behavior to flourish in order for young people to 'claim their right influence the society in which they live.'" As youth workers, we must give the chance for participants to participate, contribute, or be involved in their community no matter how small or big the impact may be. For instance, at the Boys and Girls Club, children get bored of doing the same routine or would like to explore their neighborhood. So I take a small group of young people to local events such as the Garden Club at William D'Abate Elementary School or Free Art Gallery Night in downtown. By involving young people in local events, you are teaching them on how to be involved in their own community or neighborhood. 

6. Youth Work is a welfare practice 

Youth workers' main priority is the participants' safety. 

7. Youth Work works with young people 'holistically' 

"We work primarily with young people because they encounter difficulties or pose particular challenges..." Youth workers find themselves working with young people through hardships.