Are you an adult ally to youth?

Where are Adult Allies?

Youth & Nonprofits

Young people should be engaged in every activity done for them in meaningful ways. Freechild teaches nonprofits how that happens and what it looks like. Learn more »

Youth & Government

Government agencies and elected officials should engage young people as partners in improving communities, nations and more. Learn more »

Youth & Families

At home with their families young people can share their voices, take action to improve their situations and more. Learn more »

Youth On Their Own

Young people have power and purpose no matter where they are at. Working on their own, youth are learning, taking action and more to make the world a better place. Learn more »

20 Ways To Be An Adult Ally

1. be a friend to young people and adults
2. be a listener
3. be open-minded
4. have his or her own opinions about age
5. be willing to talk
6. commit him or herself to personal growth in spite of the discomfort it may sometimes cause
7. recognize his or her personal boundaries about age
8. recognize when to refer young people or other adults to additional resources
9. confront his or her own prejudices about age
10. join others with a common purpose
11. believe that all persons regardless of age, sex, race, gender, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation should be treated with dignity and respect
12. engage in the process of developing a culture free of age-based oppression

13. recognize his or her mistakes, but not use them as an excuse for inaction
14. be responsible for empowering his or her role in a community, particularly as it relates to responding to adultism and adultcentrism
15. recognize the legal powers and privileges that adults have and which young people are denied
16. believes that youth can “be youth” and be partners and meaningful participants
17. is clear about his or her intentions as an adult ally
18. fosters environments where young people feel comfortable and respected
19. does not assume that youth only know about “youth issues”
20. supports young people’s development as meaningful partners and leaders