our core values.

INCLUSION Young people are profoundly impacted by policies affecting their communities. yli brings youth to the table and works to institutionalize youth voice in the decision-making process.

INNOVATION A wellspring of fresh perspectives and ideas, youth can often see a way forward where adults cannot. yli’s youth development strategy encourages youth to identify and implement their own solutions to the issues their communities face.

SOCIAL JUSTICE Throughout history, young people have ignited and led social justice movements to create a better world for everyone. yli helps them to focus their attention on the root causes of injustice, and sharpen the skills they need to tackle them. 

COMMUNITY Nobody can do it alone! Through relationship and coalition-building, yli feeds the connective tissue within our communities to power our movements with the brilliance, resourcefulness, and wisdom of our partners..