This resource corresponds to Day 1.

As adults, we have to be reminded of the value of having youth at the table. Too often we don't think they have the experience or expertise we are looking for. We think that youth can learn from us and not vice-versa. The truth is, we can learn a lot from youth. They are honest, direct, and sincere. They bring more than a just a youth perspective to committee work; they bring energy, vitality and an eagerness to perform 'real work'-not just 'talking'.

I find that when young people know their topic and feel confident about speaking, adults listen. At a recent presentation, youth spoke about their role in a community initiative to prevent underage drinking. Adults were attentive asked a lot of questions, and were impressed by the youth and willing to help.

Another time at a committee meeting in which we were reviewing data from parent surveys on alcohol use by teens, young people were surprised that so many parents don't believe youth are drinking much. They are looking forward to letting adults know that there is a lot more underage drinking than adults realize.

Cathy Slade is director of the Healthy Roslindale Coalition in Boston, Mass. She supervises the Rossie Reps Youth Council.