Strategic Advocacy

Following are the specific priorities the Rural Youth Institute could spearhead to drive meaningful change for the youth of Maine:

1. Ensure Universal Access to Aspiration-Building Programs: Champion the development and implementation of programs that nurture the aspirations of youth in every rural community across Maine. This priority seeks to ensure that all young people have an opportunity to engage in activities and experiences, both during school hours and in out-of-school settings, which inspire and expand their visions for the future. By advocating for strong partnerships between schools and community-based organizations, we strive to establish a network that supports aspiration-building programs, equipping young people with the tools to dream big and the pathways to achieve those dreams.

2. Expansion of Teen Engagement Opportunities: Advocate for an increase in out-of-school programs targeting teenagers, recognizing the gap in attention and resources between early childhood and teen years. This priority aims to provide Maine’s teenagers with a wider range of opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and positive engagement during out-of-school time.

3. Investment in Preventative Long-Term Mentoring: Call for greater investment in long-term, preventative mentoring programs to address the significant “mentor gap” in Maine’s rural communities. By ensuring more consistent and accessible mentorship, we strive to bring Maine’s youth the benefits of guidance and support, ideally reducing the ratio of students without access to a mentor.

4. Advancement of “Looping” in Youth Development: Promote initiatives that support “looping” where youth development professionals remain with the same group of young individuals for multiple years. This approach facilitates deeper relationships and continuity in the developmental support system for Maine’s youth, allowing professionals to better understand and meet the evolving needs of those they serve.