First “Voice of Our Youth—Dane County Youth Assessment Research Summit” to be Held Next Week

November 01, 2019
Ariana Vruwink, (608) 267-8823
County Executive

The Dane County Youth Commission and partners will host the first Voice of Our Youth—Dane County Youth Assessment Research Summit on Friday, November 8, 2019 from 8:00AM to 4:30PM at UW Madison, Union South. This event is an opportunity for researchers, community partners, and youth to come together to learn about DCYA research findings, discuss strategies on using the findings to advocate for youth needs and resources, and share how DCYA data is being used to educate the community while informing policy, funding, and program development decisions. A central focus of this event will be to elevate youth voice through the data and through youth participation.

“The Dane County Youth Assessment has provided key insights into our youth’s attitudes and experiences on a range of topics that help us better understand their concerns and monitor trends,” said Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. “We look forward to holding this first-of-its-kind summit and having attendees learn more about this work.”

Since 1980, Dane County youth in grades 7-12 have been surveyed regarding their opinions, concerns, attitudes, behaviors, and experiences. Survey results provide essential data and “youth voice” to educators, service providers, parents, policy-makers, and funding bodies to inform grant writing, program development, and public policy.

The 2018 Youth Assessment was a collaborative effort led by the Dane County Youth Commission in partnership with the United Way of Dane County, Public Health Madison & Dane County, the City of Madison, seventeen public school districts, and one private high school. Youth completed the survey through their schools between January and April 2018. The High School and Middle School Reports provide data tables of every survey question along with county-wide youth responses by grade level.

Those interested in attending this free and informative event can register here. A few spots remain available. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided to attendees. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found by visiting https://voiceofouryouth.com/faqs. Parent consent is required during the registration process for attendees under 18, and they must be accompanied by a parent/guardian or adult led group to attend.