I am continually impressed by the Show Me Campaign’s dedication to youth. Too often college students are written off as inexperienced or unqualified and as a result, they do not receive the support they need to meet their potential. While not all non-profits are capable of providing the same resources John Legend’s Show Me Campaign does, more organizations should certainly adopt the values that this program expresses. Show Me Fellows demonstrate the passion and dedication to development characteristic of the youth movement to end extreme poverty, a movement that when tapped, can lead to meaningful and productive partnerships.

Recently, USAID began to develop its very first youth-oriented policy. This policy aims to formally recognize the important connection between young Americans and USAID and to find new ways to empower our generation. Most significantly, USAID is asking youth leaders to visit USAID.gov/youthimpact and share their thoughts on how the organization could effectively engage young Americans.

This is an excellent opportunity for students to connect with this leading development agency, and demonstrate our generation’s drive for real change. I strongly encourage Show Me supporters to visit USAID’s Youthimpact website and to share their thoughts on engaging America’s youth and the importance of MDG 2 – achieving universal primary education.

I am looking forward to next week when USAID will announce the first phase of this youth policy. Hopefully more organizations will follow USAID, the Show Me Campaign, and the Millennium Campus Network’s lead and not only help connect youth to the resources they need, but take the time to listen to and apply their suggestions.

To read more about how USAID is engaging youth, check out this post on USAID’s Impact Blog.

Nicole Theobald