No matter what part of Maine we call home, we all want to live in strong, healthy communities. But wherever we live, we often focus on the problems we see around us – maybe there aren't enough jobs or housing, or families struggle with substance use and poor mental health.

Promoting the well-being of young people is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of our towns and cities. It is increasingly clear that many of these critical public health challenges are rooted in our early experiences. When young people are valued and cared for, they thrive – and go on to become adults who succeed and help our communities grow.

All of us have a role to play in creating opportunities for youth; together, we can identify our communities' strengths and the opportunities for more work to support a positive future for young people. This guide will present eight keys to helping youth to thrive in our communities.

We have a fantastic opportunity to work together in our communities to support youth. You may be a group of caring neighbors, faith groups, a formal coalition, or a cross-sector of community members who want to promote mattering and resilience for our young people. No matter what group you are in, this guide will help you process and learn together as you develop community solutions.

The Youth Thriving Guide provides communities with tools and resources to help empower and support youth. It is a roadmap to help you develop a shared vision for encouraging young people in your community. The guide uses a health equity and social justice approach, inclusive of all populations.

You can use all the tools included or those that best fit your community. We hope you find this guide helpful.