Building a 360° Web of Support: Creating Community Systems to Empower Youth

Presenter:

Meg Taft, Executive Director, Rural Youth Institute

Explore an innovative youth development model for building comprehensive community support systems through the Aspirations Incubator's proven approach. Meg Taft, Executive Director of the Rural Youth Institute will highlight effective strategies for community asset mapping, cultivating robust school and out-of-school-time partnerships, and the critical role of a dedicated Relationship Router—an intentional connector facilitating youth and community engagement. Participants will gain actionable insights into establishing integrated networks of support that elevate youth aspirations, enhance emotional and social well-being, and foster sustained, positive relationships that follow youth from middle school through high school graduation and beyond.