Hopefully, the result of steps 1 through 4 will be youth members serving on local boards and committees. Both the youth and adult members will need training in working together, so that they build an environment of respect, communication, investment (training and development), and meaningful involvement. Allow some time for adjustment and be patient!

Remember these tips to help you be an effective team member:

• Find a guide (mentor), someone on the board who has experience and is willing to learn alongside you.

• Be confident with yourself. You have been selected for this board and you belong there. It may take some time to adjust, but just watch, listen, and learn.

• Ask for training and support. Don't be afraid to ask questions about policies and procedures. Someone once said that the only dumb question is the one asked three times. If you have so many questions that you might slow the flow of the meeting, write them down and ask during a break.

• Be a leader and speak up. If you have thoughts, ideas, or concerns, share them! But remember that you are an equal member, so your ideas are considered to be as valuable as all the others, not more so.

• Stay interested and curious. Some issues are boring for everyone, but the task of a board is to do all the work for which it is responsible. It is up to you to take responsibility for your learning and to contribute.

• Be respsible. Show up for all meetings and fulfill the tasks for which you are responsible. Follow through and hold yourself--and all the board members--accountable.

• Develop an adequate and structured reflection process for yourself and the other board members.

• Document your involvement using photos, journals, and other methods. This allos you to see your success and learn from your channges. Documentation is also a great way to receive recognition for your work and to recruit other young people to participate.

Sources: Integrating Youth Voice in Service-learning and The Power of an Untapped Resource