Youth Development Network’s mission is to create life-changing experience s for youth to thrive and succeed.  YDN believes that training and professional development for peoplewho work with youth is a  critical component of achieving our vision. YDN’s training programs, networking, resources, and public policy efforts all work together to improve the quality of youth services and promote youth development principles across a broad range of communities, youth-serving organizations, education, faith groups, juvenile justice agencies, and businesses.

We see our communities filled with youth who can achieve personal and academic success, be connected to adults and their community, have a positive vision of their future and grow up to be healthy, productive and civic-minded adults. YDN is dedicated to ensuring that all systems and services that support youth are of high quality so that youth get the supports and opportunities they need to succeed.  YDN is a leading resource on the youth development approach.