What We Do

Since 1998, YA-YA has evolved from a small project to an independent nonprofit organization. 

Today, we offer a holistic program that prepares young people to take on leadership positions within and beyond the organization and be lifelong activists in whatever career they choose. Our folks have worked on several winning campaigns and continue to forge ahead in fighting for an end to the school-to-prison pipeline and social and economic justice through an anti-racist, anti-sexist, class-conscious lens.

OUR MISSION

The YA-YA Network advances youth organizing as a strategy for youth development and social transformation. Through training and leadership experience, YA-YA prepares participants to become the next generation of activists in the movement for social and economic justice. We build the capacity of young people to influence policy, improve institutions, and change systems that directly impact youth, their families, and the communities they live in. 

OUR VISION

Transformative youth leadership creating better social and economic futures for our communities and beyond.

OUR VALUES

Empowerment: YA-YA works with marginalized and disenfranchised young people by providing training and support to turn their experiences into action. 

Community: We prize the strength that comes from bringing together diverse youth who develop solidarity with each other to address the challenges their communities face.

Anti-Oppression: We critically analyze and work to dismantle the power imbalance and systemic forms of oppression at the root of socioeconomic and cultural injustices in our society. 

Effectiveness: We take the long view and are strategic in ensuring young people are leading critical conversations and driving movements that affect youth and win outcomes.

Passion for Youth Leadership: YA-YAs have an unwavering commitment and dedication to youth and our ability to challenge injustice.

Responsiveness: As the world changes, we commit to continuous learning, to be informed, and to adapt our efforts as problems and issues evolve.

Organizing: The process of bringing people together to use their collective power to win improvements in people’s lives and to challenge the power structure.