Giving Compass' Take:

• Tim Silard argues that low youth participation in democracy means that it is time for funders to step up and invest in youth. 

• How can funders incorporate funding for youth into their existing strategies? 

• Learn about the power of youth organizing. 

It's true that years of data show young people participate in elections and civic activities at significantly lower rates than other age groups. But instead of blaming this participation gap on young people themselves, we need to recognize and address the barriers they face in becoming engaged and involved — from a lack of quality civic education in our schools to complicated and discriminatory voter registration and absentee voting policies.

We also need to change the culture of our social movements so young people can find a welcoming seat at the table and exercise their leadership in the field of social justice. This is what the Youth Power Summit was about: building the skills, engagement, and networks of young activists.

Today, one out of every six Californians is between the ages of 5 and 18. According to the 2010 census, 70 percent of Californians under the age of 25 identify as people of color. Young people deserve, and are demanding, a voice in shaping policies that will have a profound and enduring effect on their ability to find affordable quality education; access to decent health care, clean air, and water; and safety in our communities; among many other issues.

As grantmakers committed to equity and social justice, we know that our work and the work of our movement partners will succeed only to the extent that young people are active and engaged in the democratic process — and the future of their democracy. That's why philanthropy must explore ways to catalyze and build power among the rising generation.

Read the full article about invesing in youth by Tim Silard at Philanthropy News Digest.