Event Toolkit
Youth Voices Circle: Our Future, Our Voice
Theme Purpose:
To create a supportive space where young people can share their ideas, hopes, and concerns—and where adults listen with respect. This gathering uplifts Asian American youth and youth from all backgrounds, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and shared responsibility for the community’s future.
It reflects DOI250AA’s purpose: Asian American–led community building that prepares the next generation to participate confidently, collaboratively, and equally in America’s civic life.
Group Size
6–20 people (mix of youth and adults encouraged).
Time Needed
60–75 minutes total.
Materials
- Chairs in a circle
- Optional small microphone or talking stick to signal whose turn it is to speak
- Paper & pens for youth to jot ideas
- Camera/phone for capturing moments (with permission)
Step-by-Step Program
1. Welcome & Purpose (5 minutes)
Host Script:
“Welcome to the Youth Voices Circle. Today is about listening—truly listening—to the ideas, concerns, and dreams of our young people. Their voices help us understand where our community is headed and how we can support them as they grow.
This is part of DOI250AA, an Asian American–led initiative that invites people of all backgrounds to reflect, connect, and participate as our country approaches its 250th year. We’re here to learn from our youth and to build community together.”
2. Icebreaker (5–10 minutes)
Each participant—youth and adults—shares:
One word that describes how they feel about the future
One thing they appreciate about their community or cultural background
This sets a hopeful and inclusive tone.
3. Youth Sharing (30–35 minutes)
Youth take turns sharing while others listen respectfully.
Adults do not comment during this section.
Prompts for youth:
What’s one change you’d like to see in your community or school?
What makes you feel proud—about your culture, your identity, or the diversity around you?
How would you like to contribute to America’s future as you grow?
What kind of support helps you feel included and confident?
Encourage honesty, creativity, and courage—no pressure, no judgment.
4. Adult Reflection & Response (10–15 minutes)
Adults respond briefly with:
What they heard
What they appreciated
Ways they can support youth ideas
Commitment to listen, encourage, or show up
The purpose is connection, not correction.
5. Closing & Positive Action (5–10 minutes)
Step 1 – Reflection Notes
Youth write down:
1. One thing they want to act on.
2. How they will take the first step.
Step 2 – Submit to DOI250AA
- Encourage youth to upload their ideas or a short video to the DOI250AA website.
- Mention BoostInMinutes.com incentives for participation.
Host Closing Script:
“When young people speak, the community learns. When we listen, the future becomes clearer. Your ideas matter—not just today, but for the generations that will follow. Thank you for sharing your voice.”
Optional Add-ons
- Idea Wall: Post sticky notes of youth ideas for all to see.
- Mentor Match: Pair youth with adults willing to guide them.
-
Story Video: Record short clips of youth answering the prompts.
Connect With DOI250AA
We’d love to hear from you—community members, sponsors, partners, cultural enthusiasts, educators, and friends. Your insight and support help us bridge cultures, generations, and regions. Use the contact form or email us at support@doi250aa.net. For mail: 5831 Forward Ave, Unit #918, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
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