Young people – particularly youth of color and their allies – are deeply motivated to address inequities in their communities. At Youth Leadership Institute, young people realize their power by learning to use their voices to create meaningful change.
We work within coalitions and with elected officials to promote policy change that makes our communities more equitable and just for young people, especially young people of color. And it’s paying off with over 130 policy wins so far.
Change happens when conversations take place. At yli, we believe that conversations of real significance only occur when all voices are heard. And we’re here to ensure that youth voice is heard. Loud and clear.
On February 11th it was announced that Central Valley Senior Director of Programs Yammilette Rodriguez was awarded the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award. These awards, “recognize and support individuals who are advancing innovative and effective solutions to significant state issues” and provide a $250,000 investment in the work.
Loughlin Browne was recognized at the annual Heart of Marin award ceremony for her outstanding service in the community of Marin.
YLI Eastern Coachella Valley opens new office in Coachella, CA. This office houses both Coachella Unincorporated and ¡Que Madre! Media.
BHC Merced awarded two ‘Cultivators of Change’ awards to YLI young people. First, We’Ced Youth Media was recognized for their part in leading the Trans Day of Remembrance + Trans … Continued
After weeks of counting votes for an unprecedented midterm election turnout, it appears that San Mateo’s transportation tax, Measure W, has passed by a razor-thin margin. The measure will generate … Continued
52.17% voters vote in favor of Measure P, a community-led ballot initiative calling on the city to invest in local parks.
A team of Coachella Unincorporated youth filmmakers premiered Estamos Aquí: A Community Documentary in Coachella, CA.
Roosevelt Friday Night Live is recognized for their Positive Social Norms Peer and Parent Media Campaign.
Roosevelt Friday Night Live is awarded the Friday Night Live chapter of the year for their Positive Social Norms Peer and Parent Media Campaign.
YLI welcomed YouthWire, a cutting edge statewide youth media program, into the organization on October 1, 2018.
The City of Madera voted unanimously to establish a Youth Commission on September 5, 2018
Click here for links to English and Spanish versions!
Girls and Womyn of Color youth and staff advocated and facilitated for the passing of several policies that will create safer conditions for students and staff at Merced Union High … Continued
On Wednesday, February 28th, YLI expanded our offices for the first time in 14 years!
San Mateo youth successfully led campaign to end predatory payday lending practices in Pacifica.
Friday Night Live (FNL) California Youth Council selects two Fresno County FNL youth leaders to represent Fresno County at the state level.
Click here for links to English and Spanish versions!
Fresno Unified adopts Safe Spaces policy for undocumented students after YLI youth speak out at school board meeting.
Click here for links to English and Spanish versions!
Click here for links to English and Spanish versions!
