Civic Engagement, Leadership & Advocacy

Civic Engagement

Voter Education & Engagement

Youth engage in nonpartisan voter outreach efforts, such as phonebanking, post cards, and digital campaigns, to increase voter turnout in local/ state/ national elections. We educate first-time youth voters on where to find poll locations, sample ballots, and early voting options.

Become part of Our Community.

Civic Engagement

Youth Advocacy Field Trip

We connect youth to state and federal legislators for direct policy advocacy and access to opportunities. Youth are supported through workshops on policy proposals and advocacy through storytelling.

Leadership

Youth Internship Program, 2022-2026

The Youth Internship Program is a paid opportunity for high school and college-age youth to build collaborative leadership and community organizing skills, and learn the behind-the-scenes work of nonprofit organizations through hands-on experiences and direct mentorship from Directors. Applications open annually in the Fall Semester.

2021-2023

Youth Leadership Conference

The Youth Leadership Conference has engaged over 300 high school youth and activated over 80 adult community members and volunteers. ASA youth leaders build and facilitate workshops around unpacking microaggressions, immigrant family dynamics, solidarity-building, and sharpen collaborative leadership skills. Guest speakers and panelists include community leaders, legislators, and artist-activists.

Stay tuned for next leadership conference

Coming soon in 2027

2022

Lunchbox Play

Lunchbox is an original play written and performed by ASA high school youth at the Aurora Theater. This play portrays the lived experiences of the ASA youth–their challenges with microaggressions, finding their voice, and building solidarity.

2024

Youth Summer Program
(Grades 6-8)

The Youth Summer Program came out of 2 high school youth’s passion projects. They created a 3-day camp for 15 middle school youth to learn about Asian American history and understand their identities through activities and discussions. This program created a pipeline for middle school youth to get involved in ASA as youth leaders.