tory paez

youth focus group

Background: We hosted a youth focus group with seven individuals, ranging from age six (6) to age twenty-three (23). Our goal was to understand what youth wanted to do with their lives, specifically their goals and aspirations. Once we understood the priority of each goal ("Yo quiero..."), we followed-up with what they needed to do ("Yo necesito...") in order to accomplish their specific goals. The priority matrix was made up of three levels and only a certain number of goals and needs could be included within each level. This forced our participants to truly rank their priorities.

Purpose: To understand and prioritize youth aspirations and needs within a community

Audience: Seven (7) youth; Age six (6) to age twenty-three (23)

Materials:

• Paper

• Markers

• Pens

• Small cards (green for goals, red for needs)

• Tape

Lesson Learned: Explain that the goals and needs should be authentic to them. Their parents won't see them. No goal is too small or too big!

Next Step: From this understanding, we gained insight into the wants and needs of youth, which will be used to guide future projects and initiatives.