ISD Climate Initiative: Youth Action
Engaging Youth in Climate Action
Through the Climate Initiative, ISD (International Services Department) engages youth, including volunteers, activists, students and more as leaders in climate action in their communities.
Rationale
As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather increases across the globe, youth are particularly impacted by this ever-changing environment. Young people are becoming more exposed to the climate crisis as both current and future threats to their communities are increasing. Youth also have a large potential for change and impact on their communities. Understanding this, the American Red Cross Climate Initiative aims to support and engage youth through innovative youth-led climate action programming, skills development and training.
Youth Programs and Activities
Climate and YOUth Summit
The online Climate & YOUth Summit 2024, organized by the RCRC Climate Centre, IFRC, American Red Cross, in partnership with the Norwegian Red Cross and the Big Six Youth Organizations Global Youth Mobilization initiative, brings together young leaders from the RCRC Network and other youth-led organizations around the world. The virtual conference is an opportunity to share knowledge, experiences, promote capacity building and inspire youth-led climate action. Recording of summit sessions can be found on the website (click the learn more button below).
Y-Adapt
Y-Adapt is a curriculum for young people that helps them to both understand climate change and to take practical action to adapt to the changing climate in their community.
Teen Prep Kit
Designed with teen inclusivity in mind, this kit offers a fun and accessible way to learn about preparedness. With activities and videos created by teens, for teens, it's never been easier to get educated and take action.
Youth Learning and Knowledge Resources
Y-Adapt Curriculum Concept Note
This guidance/concept note offers insights into the details and history of the Y-Adapt program
The Pillowcase Project: Community Impact Study of International Youth Preparedness Program
The Pillowcase Project is a school-based disaster preparedness education program first implemented in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 by American Red Cross volunteers in Louisiana, before being rolled out in 7 countries across the world. Originally designed for children aged 8 to 11 (grades 3–5), it provides key preparedness messages combining coping skill exercises, a textbook and a pillowcase (used as a grab bag).