District youth face numerous risk factors that increase their likelihood for negative experiences which impede their safety, resiliency, and preparation for productive adulthood. There are many community- and faith-based organizations throughout the District providing such services. Regardless of their target population, target geographic area, type of service offered, budget size, or staffing pattern, these organizations face common challenges. Public systems of care are frequently oriented toward addressing problems in the short-term rather than developing assets for long-term use. The public sector sometimes views the nonprofit youth services network not as an ally, but as an opponent. And youths' "demand" for services outpaces the organizations' resources to respond. While these barriers are shared, District youth-serving organizations have not historically responded to them collectively. Each DCAYA member organization is respected by the public sector in its own right. By combining our intellectual forces and harnessing the energy of the organizations' members and the young people they serve, DCAYA is poised to be a significant influencer in public policy decisions affecting youth, their families, and the community at large in which they live. Core values / Beliefs:(1) We believe in the mutual benefit of coalitions and the ability to effect change through the collective voice. (2) We believe the wisdom of youth and their insight play an invaluable role in the development of DCAYA's agenda and DC public policy. (3) We believe that success lies in action and in achieving measurable results. (4) We believe in the transformation of current systems to address
the inequalities and vulnerabilities faced by DC youth. Policy Priorities for 2007:Youth Homelessness
Youth Employment
Out-of-School Time
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