Pathways Recommendation
Invite and support the participation of a wider range of people in policy-making conversations from the beginning. Make sure there are seats for families of color and for youth. “Design with” instead of “designing for.
Why This Matters
Ensuring that a wide variety of perspectives and experiences are valued and represented at all decision-making tables—especially the voices of those most impacted by structural barriers—leads to more effective policies, advocacy, and resource allocation. When families, youth, and other key stakeholders are involved from the beginning of planning. services can be designed to best meet the needs of families and address the root causes of systemic inequities.