I’m proud to welcome you to Youth Action’s (YA) website. This site will introduce you to members of YA and the innovative techniques we use to challenge our peers to get involved with service in their communities. Use this site to view Youth Action’s work in both photos and words.

Our history is invigorating. Following a Tavis Smiley Foundation empowerment conference in D.C.,  five African American students returned to their homes in Philadelphia with a fierce determination to make the city a brighter place for youth to live. They worked earnestly to craft a mission statement and an action plan for an organization that would have a lasting impact on the city of Philadelphia and beyond. At the time, never in their wildest dreams could they have imagined the impact Youth Action would have in its immediate future.

Since then, Youth Action has been recognized in Philadelphia for its work at inspiring young people to become advocates for social change in their communities. YA’s efforts have continually focused on empowering young African Americans to encourage their peers to become socially, economically, and civically aware. Thus, YA believes that when youth develop an increased awareness of problems in their communities, they too will become dedicated to improving themselves and promoting the cause for social justice.

Indeed, the members of Youth Action are the highlight of our organization. It is rare to find so many extraordinary students committed to empowering others to become agents of social change. YA members come from every quarter of the city. Their array of diverse interests and personalities contribute to the organization’s development. They are certainly a part of an exciting network of community service minded, socially conscious, and devoted leaders.

In closing, we are so proud of Youth Action’s accomplishments and the impact it has had since its inception. In order to do more, we are stepping up to our responsibilities for inspiring our next generation of leaders and changemakers. And our efforts are gaining traction, thanks to the support and encouragement of many who believe in student-led service. In the months and years ahead, Youth Action looks forward to gaining your support and partnering with you to continue this great journey.

“We are young activists, young organizers, and young change makers! We Are Youth Action!”

Sincerely,

Gavin R. Grant
Youth Action, President