Youth & Young Adult Advocacy Program

The CHOOSE 180 Youth and Young Adult Advocacy Program is a space for young people who have been impacted by the criminal legal system to build community and advocate for systemic change. The program provides a platform for young people to speak their truth to advocate for change within city, county, and state agencies that directly impact them and their communities. The program lasts 10 months and serves young people ages 15-25 years old.

“The CHOOSE 180 Youth and Young Adult Advocacy Program is important because we are cultivating a space with young people that allows them to innovate solutions to systemic issues that affect their communities and livelihoods together,” explains Kyeshia Likely, Advocacy Manager. 

During the program, young people (aka “Community Experts”) learn about methods of advocacy, build understanding and analysis of the government, practice public speaking, and learn to apply an intersectional lens to problems and solutions. The cohort meets once a week for discussion and engages local politicians and community leaders as guest speakers. 

When asked about the program, Faduma, a young Community Expert, said, “For the most part it's a really open environment. [We] connect through common interest. Helpful to meet outside guests because it teaches us about advocating for communities.” 

Patricia said, “This year I feel like I liked all the learning topics. Youth Advocacy Day was a great experience. I was able to relate to the testimonies given.”

Check out the video to learn more.