Child And Youth Care Courses At Unisa

The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a range of specialized courses in Child and Youth Care that are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to support the development, wellbeing, and empowerment of children and young people. These programs focus on developing a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding child and youth care, from psychological aspects to legal and societal influences. The curriculum also emphasizes practical experience in working with children in a variety of settings. Below are some of the key Child and Youth Care courses offered at UNISA:

Higher Certificate in Child and Youth Care

This foundational course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of child and youth care. It is aimed at individuals who want to develop essential skills to work with children and young people, particularly in care settings such as schools, youth organizations, and child welfare services. Students will gain insights into topics like child development, communication skills, and the rights of children, preparing them to support children in a variety of environments. The course also introduces ethical principles and professional practices that are crucial for anyone pursuing a career in child and youth care.

The Higher Certificate emphasizes a holistic approach to child and youth care, ensuring that students understand both the theoretical frameworks and practical applications needed to support children effectively. Students will be expected to engage in fieldwork to gain hands-on experience, which enhances their understanding of real-world challenges faced by children and youth in care. This course is ideal for those who wish to pursue further studies or immediate work in the child and youth care sector.

Diploma in Child and Youth Care

The Diploma in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is a comprehensive program that builds upon foundational knowledge and prepares students for a more advanced level of practice. This course is specifically designed for those who want to gain deeper insights into child and youth care, focusing on more complex issues such as trauma-informed care, social justice, and advocacy. Students learn to engage with vulnerable children and youth in a way that promotes their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. The curriculum includes both theoretical learning and practical components, with an emphasis on understanding the dynamics of youth behavior, child protection, and community-based care systems.

As part of the program, students are required to participate in practical placements that provide them with firsthand experience in diverse environments, including social services, child protection agencies, schools, and residential care settings. The diploma includes courses on child psychology, family dynamics, ethics in child and youth care, and leadership in care settings. Graduates of this program are equipped to take on roles such as youth counselors, care workers, and child protection officers, working in public and private organizations that provide support for vulnerable children and adolescents.

Key courses typically included:

• Child and Youth Development: Focuses on understanding the stages of growth and development in children and adolescents, with an emphasis on their psychological, social, and emotional needs.
• Child Protection: Explores the legal and social frameworks that guide the protection of children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Youth Empowerment: Teaches strategies for engaging and empowering youth, particularly in marginalized communities, to help them develop self-esteem and resilience.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Focuses on understanding and responding to the impact of trauma on children and youth, with practical tools for supporting healing and recovery.

Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care

The Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care at UNISA offers students a deeper, more academic understanding of the field, preparing them for professional roles that require a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. This degree is designed for individuals who aim to work at higher levels within child welfare, youth advocacy, and related fields. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including child development theories, social work practices, legal and ethical issues in child care, and strategies for managing challenging behaviors. It also emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, which are essential for addressing complex issues within child and youth care.

Students pursuing this degree are not only engaged in coursework but also gain practical experience through field placements. These placements allow students to apply their learning in real-world settings such as social service agencies, schools, community centers, and hospitals. By engaging with children and young people in a professional capacity, students are better equipped to design interventions, advocate for policies, and influence positive changes in child and youth care practices. Upon graduation, students can pursue careers in child protection services, social work, educational support, and other youth-focused sectors, often taking on leadership and managerial roles.

Key courses typically included:

• Theories of Child Development: An in-depth exploration of psychological, cognitive, and social development in children, covering key stages and influences.
• Youth and Society: Investigates the relationship between youth and society, focusing on societal challenges and how they impact young people’s lives.
• Child and Youth Advocacy: Provides students with the skills needed to advocate for children and youth within legal, social, and policy frameworks.
• Research Methods in Child and Youth Care: Teaches students how to conduct research and apply evidence-based practices in child and youth care settings.

This degree is ideal for those looking to develop a comprehensive understanding of child and youth care, equipping students with the skills to support young people’s needs across a variety of challenging and complex situations. It also provides the foundation for those interested in pursuing further studies or advanced roles within child and youth services.

Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Youth Care

The Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Youth Care is aimed at professionals who already have a background in child and youth care or related fields and wish to deepen their expertise. This advanced qualification provides students with specialized knowledge and skills in areas such as advanced child protection, policy development, therapeutic interventions, and working with children with disabilities or those affected by trauma. The curriculum is designed to refine existing practices while offering fresh perspectives on how to address the evolving challenges faced by children and young people today.

Students in this program explore in-depth topics such as the psychological impacts of abuse and neglect, advanced youth counseling techniques, and global perspectives on child welfare. There is a strong emphasis on research and the application of theory to practice, ensuring that graduates are prepared to contribute to both academic and practical developments in the field of child and youth care. Graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma are often equipped to take on leadership roles in child welfare organizations, conduct research, or contribute to policy and advocacy initiatives that impact children and youth at a broader level.

Key courses typically included:

• Advanced Child Protection Practices: Focuses on the latest approaches to safeguarding children and providing interventions that reduce the risk of harm.
• Youth Counseling and Therapy: Provides students with advanced skills to engage in therapeutic work with young people, especially those who have experienced trauma.
• International Child Welfare: Explores child welfare issues on a global scale, comparing practices, policies, and interventions across different countries and regions.
• Leadership and Management in Child and Youth Care: Prepares students for managerial and leadership positions, focusing on organizational skills, strategic planning, and advocacy.

Master of Arts in Child and Youth Care

The Master of Arts in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is an advanced academic program designed for those who wish to become experts in the field. This degree focuses on developing highly specialized knowledge and leadership skills in child and youth care, emphasizing research, policy analysis, and advanced therapeutic practices. Students engage with complex topics such as childhood trauma, child welfare policy, and the socio-cultural factors that influence the care and development of children and adolescents. The program encourages students to critically analyze and address the systemic issues that affect young people, preparing them to take on influential roles in both practice and research.

This program is structured to develop both practical and theoretical expertise, with students required to conduct original research in the form of a thesis. The thesis allows students to explore a topic of interest in great depth, contributing new knowledge or solutions to ongoing challenges in the field. Graduates of the Master of Arts in Child and Youth Care are well-equipped to work as senior professionals, researchers, and policy advisors in areas such as child welfare services, academic research, and governmental or non-governmental organizations. This degree also provides an ideal foundation for those wishing to pursue a career in academia or in high-level policy development roles related to child and youth care.

Key courses typically included:

• Research Methodology in Child and Youth Care: Focuses on advanced research techniques and methodologies, enabling students to conduct thorough investigations and produce evidence-based solutions.
• Policy and Advocacy in Child and Youth Care: Examines the role of policy in shaping child and youth care practices, preparing students to influence policy at a national or international level.
• Advanced Therapeutic Techniques: Explores advanced counseling methods and interventions for working with children and adolescents, particularly those experiencing trauma or behavioral difficulties.
• Global Perspectives on Child Welfare: Provides an understanding of how different countries approach child welfare, highlighting international best practices and cross-cultural challenges.

The Master of Arts in Child and Youth Care is ideal for individuals who wish to make significant contributions to the field through research, policy development, or advanced practice. This program equips graduates with the expertise necessary to tackle the most pressing issues affecting children and young people worldwide, preparing them for leadership positions that can shape the future of child and youth care.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Child and Youth Care

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is the highest academic qualification available in the field, designed for those with a deep passion for research and a desire to contribute groundbreaking knowledge to child and youth care practices. This program is ideal for those wishing to pursue careers as academics, researchers, or senior policy makers. The PhD program focuses on advancing the theoretical understanding of child and youth care, and it encourages students to explore innovative approaches to the complex challenges faced by children, youth, and families. The dissertation, a significant component of the PhD, requires students to conduct original research that addresses gaps in current knowledge or offers new perspectives on existing issues.

Students enrolled in the PhD program are expected to engage with cutting-edge theories and contribute to the global body of knowledge on child and youth care. They have the opportunity to work closely with experts in the field, participate in academic forums, and publish their findings in reputable journals. The PhD is not only focused on the development of academic expertise but also aims to create thought leaders who can influence policy and practice at a national and international level. Graduates of the PhD program are prepared to assume top roles in academia, research institutions, policy development organizations, and leadership positions in government or non-government sectors.

Key courses typically included:

• Advanced Theories in Child and Youth Development: Provides an in-depth exploration of the complex theoretical frameworks that underpin the study and practice of child and youth care.
• Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods: Focuses on both qualitative and quantitative research methods, equipping students with the skills to conduct comprehensive studies in the field.
• Philosophy and Ethics in Child and Youth Care: Examines the philosophical and ethical considerations that inform research and practice in the field, promoting a deeper understanding of the moral issues involved.
• Innovative Practices in Child and Youth Care: Encourages students to explore and develop innovative approaches to contemporary challenges in child and youth care, fostering creativity in addressing real-world problems.

The PhD in Child and Youth Care is ideal for those wishing to lead the way in transforming the field through research and academic contributions. This program provides the highest level of training and expertise for individuals looking to make a lasting impact on child and youth care policies, practices, and education globally.

Postgraduate Certificate in Child and Youth Care

The Postgraduate Certificate in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is a short, specialized program designed for professionals who already have a background in child and youth care or a related field and wish to further develop their expertise. This certificate focuses on contemporary issues in the field, providing advanced training in specific aspects of child and youth care, such as trauma-informed care, intervention strategies for at-risk youth, and working with children with disabilities. The course aims to enhance the competencies of practitioners, allowing them to become more effective in their roles and take on more specialized tasks within their organizations.

Students are encouraged to apply the knowledge and skills gained during the course to their current work environments, fostering a deeper understanding of the real-world challenges in child and youth care. The certificate also emphasizes the importance of reflecting on one’s practice and engaging in ongoing professional development. It is particularly suitable for those seeking to improve their practice through the acquisition of specialized skills or those aiming for leadership roles that require a deeper understanding of specific areas in child and youth care. Graduates can expect to work in fields like therapeutic intervention, social services, or as educators in training institutions.

Key courses typically included:

• Trauma-Informed Care Practices: Teaches strategies for understanding and supporting children and youth who have experienced trauma, helping to create safe and healing environments.
• Youth Mental Health: Focuses on the identification, prevention, and intervention of mental health issues in youth, preparing students to support young people in managing their emotional and psychological well-being.
• Specialized Child and Youth Care Interventions: Provides practical tools for dealing with specific challenges such as substance abuse, behavioral issues, and developmental disorders in children and youth.
• Ethical and Legal Considerations in Child and Youth Care: Focuses on the legal and ethical aspects of working with children and young people, including child protection laws and professional ethics.

The Postgraduate Certificate is ideal for those who wish to sharpen their expertise in particular areas of child and youth care without committing to a full degree program. It is also suited for professionals who aim to advance their careers by gaining specialized knowledge in targeted areas of the field.

Certificate in Child and Youth Care

The Certificate in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is an entry-level qualification that provides students with the foundational skills needed to work effectively with children and youth. This certificate is tailored for individuals who are new to the field of child and youth care or those who seek a basic understanding of child development and care practices. The program covers essential topics such as communication strategies, developmental psychology, and basic child protection practices. It aims to equip students with the skills necessary for providing day-to-day care in various settings, such as youth shelters, schools, and community centers.

This course emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, encouraging students to gain practical experience through supervised placements. These placements allow students to apply theoretical concepts in real-life situations, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by children and young people. The certificate is ideal for individuals who are looking to start their careers in the child and youth care sector or those working in related fields who wish to enhance their qualifications. Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as care workers, teaching assistants, or support staff in child and youth organizations.

Key courses typically included:

• Introduction to Child and Youth Care: An overview of the child and youth care field, providing a solid understanding of the basic principles and practices involved in working with young people.
• Child Development and Behavior: Focuses on understanding the psychological and emotional stages of child and adolescent development, including factors that influence behavior.
• Basic Child Protection: Introduces the key concepts of child protection, including recognizing signs of abuse and neglect, and understanding the appropriate response mechanisms.
• Communication Skills for Child and Youth Care: Teaches effective communication techniques to engage with children and youth, fostering trust and supporting their emotional needs.

The Certificate in Child and Youth Care is an excellent starting point for those seeking to begin a career in child and youth services. It provides essential knowledge and skills that can be built upon with further qualifications or practical experience in the field.

Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Care

The Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is designed for individuals who already possess a foundational understanding of child and youth care and want to deepen their knowledge and skills. This program is ideal for professionals seeking to develop advanced competencies to work in more specialized areas within child and youth care. The curriculum is comprehensive and provides students with an in-depth exploration of complex issues such as adolescent behavior, mental health, juvenile justice, and family dynamics. By the end of the program, students are expected to have developed the expertise to handle the more intricate and challenging aspects of child and youth care, such as working with children affected by substance abuse or those in conflict with the law.

The Advanced Diploma places significant emphasis on practical application and experiential learning. Students are required to complete practical placements in a range of settings, including residential care, social services, and educational institutions. This hands-on experience ensures that students are able to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios. The program also covers leadership and management techniques, preparing students for senior roles in the child and youth care sector, such as program coordinators, senior counselors, or community outreach specialists. Graduates of the Advanced Diploma are well-equipped to work with vulnerable youth in a variety of high-demand environments.

Key courses typically included:

• Adolescent Development and Behavior: Focuses on understanding the psychological, social, and emotional challenges faced by adolescents, and how to effectively respond to their needs.
• Mental Health in Youth: Explores common mental health issues in young people, such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, and how to intervene effectively.
• Youth and Juvenile Justice: Investigates the relationship between youth and the justice system, focusing on rehabilitation, restorative justice, and working with at-risk youth.
• Leadership in Child and Youth Care: Provides the skills needed to take on leadership and management roles, emphasizing strategic planning, team coordination, and decision-making.

The Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Care is an excellent choice for those who wish to take on leadership roles or specialize in certain areas within the field of child and youth care. It provides a balanced blend of theory, practical experience, and leadership training, ensuring graduates are prepared to meet the diverse challenges of working with children and adolescents in complex situations.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) with a focus on Child and Youth Care

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) with a focus on Child and Youth Care at UNISA is a comprehensive program that combines the study of social work with specialized training in child and youth care. This program is designed for individuals who wish to pursue a career in social work, with a particular emphasis on supporting children, youth, and families. Students learn to apply social work theories and practices within the context of child protection, family dynamics, mental health, and community development. The program also emphasizes ethical practice, social justice, and advocacy, ensuring that students are prepared to advocate for children’s rights and welfare in various settings.

This Bachelor’s degree incorporates both theoretical learning and extensive fieldwork, which gives students the opportunity to work directly with children and families in real-world settings. Field placements in social service agencies, schools, and community centers provide students with the practical experience needed to navigate the challenges of social work and child care. Students also engage in case management, policy analysis, and research, which equips them with the skills to influence child welfare policies and make a difference in the lives of children and youth. Graduates of this program are qualified to work as social workers specializing in child and youth care, in addition to other social service roles.

Key courses typically included:

• Social Work Theories and Practice: Provides foundational knowledge in social work practice, focusing on theories that underpin interventions with children and families.
• Child Protection and Family Welfare: Explores strategies for protecting children from harm and supporting families in crisis, including interventions in cases of abuse and neglect.
• Community Development and Social Justice: Focuses on the role of social work in promoting social justice and working towards the empowerment of disadvantaged communities.
• Mental Health and Children: Examines mental health issues in children and adolescents, including assessment, intervention, and therapeutic strategies.

The BSW with a focus on Child and Youth Care is ideal for individuals who wish to become social workers with expertise in child and youth services. This degree prepares graduates to work in a wide range of social work roles, providing support and advocacy for children, families, and communities, while also allowing them to engage in the broader issues of social policy and justice.

Advanced Certificate in Child and Youth Care

The Advanced Certificate in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is a specialized program designed for individuals who already have some experience or qualifications in child and youth care and wish to advance their knowledge and skills in the field. This certificate focuses on refining the practitioner’s ability to engage with children and youth in a variety of contexts, particularly in situations that require advanced care and intervention. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including advanced child protection strategies, therapeutic interventions, and effective communication with at-risk youth. It is ideal for professionals who want to further develop their expertise in handling complex care situations or work with children facing specific challenges such as trauma, abuse, or behavioral issues.

This certificate program is designed to offer a more in-depth exploration of certain aspects of child and youth care, and it emphasizes the application of theoretical knowledge in practice. Students are encouraged to critically reflect on their professional practices and engage in advanced problem-solving to address the unique needs of children and youth in care. The program also explores the integration of social and psychological theories into everyday child care practices. Graduates of this certificate can expect to be better prepared for roles that require a higher level of expertise, such as senior care worker positions, program coordinators, or specialists in child welfare.

Key courses typically included:

• Advanced Child Protection: Focuses on strategies and legal frameworks designed to safeguard children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, with an emphasis on intervention and prevention.
• Therapeutic Techniques for Youth: Explores a range of therapeutic methods for working with troubled youth, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, play therapy, and art therapy.
• Engagement and Communication with At-Risk Youth: Teaches methods for building trust and effective communication with children and adolescents facing emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges.
• Case Management and Intervention: Provides students with skills in managing cases, developing intervention plans, and working collaboratively with other professionals to support children and families.

The Advanced Certificate in Child and Youth Care is a valuable option for those looking to enhance their professional practice and take on more specialized roles within child and youth services. It provides a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for dealing with complex care scenarios, allowing graduates to work more effectively in high-demand child and youth care settings.

National Diploma in Child and Youth Care

The National Diploma in Child and Youth Care at UNISA is a comprehensive qualification that provides a solid foundation in child and youth care practices. This diploma is intended for individuals who want to gain a thorough understanding of child development, youth behavior, and care practices, equipping them with the skills necessary to support children and adolescents in a variety of care settings. The curriculum covers topics such as child psychology, ethical considerations in child and youth care, and the various challenges faced by children in different social contexts. This diploma is ideal for those who wish to enter the child and youth care field and take on roles such as youth workers, child care practitioners, or community service agents.

The National Diploma emphasizes practical training and includes fieldwork placements where students can apply the skills and knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world situations. These placements provide invaluable hands-on experience, helping students to better understand the day-to-day realities of working with children and youth. Additionally, the diploma focuses on developing essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution, which are critical in managing difficult situations and building strong, supportive relationships with children and their families. Upon completion of the National Diploma, graduates are prepared to work in a wide range of child care environments, from social services to educational institutions.

Key courses typically included:

• Child Development and Psychology: Provides foundational knowledge of how children develop emotionally, socially, and cognitively, and the psychological factors that influence their behavior.
• Social Contexts of Child and Youth Care: Examines how various social factors, such as poverty, culture, and family dynamics, affect children and youth.
• Ethics and Legal Frameworks in Child and Youth Care: Covers the ethical issues and legal regulations involved in working with children and young people, including child protection laws and rights.
• Crisis Intervention and Counseling: Teaches students how to provide immediate support and counseling to children in crisis, with an emphasis on de-escalation and trauma-informed care.

The National Diploma in Child and Youth Care provides an excellent entry point into the field for those passionate about supporting and advocating for children and youth. It offers a balanced mix of theoretical education and practical experience, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of working in a diverse range of child and youth care settings.

Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a focus on Child and Youth Care

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a focus on Child and Youth Care at UNISA is an undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social work practice, while concentrating on child and youth care. This program prepares students to work with vulnerable children, youth, and families, addressing a range of issues such as child abuse, mental health challenges, and family dysfunction. The curriculum combines social work theory, practical skills, and a deep understanding of the social systems affecting children and families, including education, welfare, and the justice system. By the end of the program, students are expected to be skilled in conducting assessments, providing interventions, and advocating for children’s rights in diverse social contexts.

The program’s interdisciplinary approach ensures that students not only acquire the necessary social work skills but also gain specialized knowledge in child and youth care. Students will be trained in direct practice with children and youth, learning about crisis intervention, case management, and developing treatment plans tailored to the needs of young clients. Fieldwork placements in social service agencies, schools, and youth organizations provide students with the hands-on experience required to handle complex cases. Graduates are prepared to work in a range of roles, including child welfare social workers, school counselors, and community outreach coordinators, where they can directly impact the lives of children and young people.

Key courses typically included:

• Social Work and Child Welfare: Focuses on the role of social work in promoting and protecting the welfare of children, including the prevention of abuse and neglect.
• Youth Development and Well-being: Explores key concepts in youth development, including emotional, social, and cognitive growth, and strategies for promoting healthy outcomes.
• Crisis Intervention in Child and Youth Care: Teaches intervention techniques for responding to crises involving children and youth, including trauma, abuse, and behavioral issues.
• Ethics in Social Work and Child Care: Examines the ethical principles and standards in social work practice, with a focus on working with children and youth.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a focus on Child and Youth Care equips students with both the theoretical foundations and practical skills needed to work effectively with children and youth in a variety of social settings. This degree is ideal for individuals who want to make a positive impact on the lives of young people while addressing systemic issues such as inequality, abuse, and neglect.

Diploma in Youth Development

The Diploma in Youth Development at UNISA is a specialized program that focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to support the personal, social, and professional development of young people. This diploma provides students with a strong understanding of the factors that impact youth development, including socio-economic conditions, education, peer influence, and family dynamics. The program emphasizes the importance of building supportive relationships with young people, creating safe environments for their growth, and developing strategies to help them overcome challenges such as substance abuse, unemployment, and mental health issues.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the Diploma in Youth Development provides students with the practical tools necessary for working in youth-focused roles. Students gain experience in creating and delivering programs aimed at youth empowerment, community engagement, and leadership development. Field placements offer the opportunity to work directly with young people in a variety of contexts, including schools, community organizations, and youth centers. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for roles such as youth worker, program coordinator, and community development officer, all of which involve supporting young people in achieving their full potential.

Key courses typically included:

• Youth Development Theories: Explores the various theories of youth development, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence young people’s growth and behavior.
• Youth Empowerment and Advocacy: Teaches strategies for empowering young people to take control of their lives, including advocacy skills to ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
• Program Design and Implementation for Youth: Focuses on designing, implementing, and evaluating youth development programs, with an emphasis on creating opportunities for youth to succeed.
• Working with At-Risk Youth: Provides the tools and techniques necessary for engaging with youth who are at risk due to factors like poverty, substance abuse, or family dysfunction.

The Diploma in Youth Development is an excellent option for those who are passionate about working with young people, particularly in community-based settings. The program equips students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to make a real difference in the lives of youth, preparing them for careers that support youth empowerment, education, and overall well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, UNISA offers a broad spectrum of Child and Youth Care courses that cater to various levels of expertise, from introductory certificates to advanced master’s and doctoral programs. These courses provide students with the essential knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to address the complex needs of children, youth, and families in diverse settings. Whether you are just beginning your career in child and youth care, looking to specialize in a particular area, or aiming for leadership roles, UNISA’s programs provide a comprehensive path to success.

The programs are designed not only to impart theoretical knowledge but also to offer real-world experience through field placements, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to face the challenges of working with vulnerable populations. With a focus on critical areas like child protection, youth development, mental health, and therapeutic interventions, these courses prepare students to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. Whether pursuing a career in direct care, policy development, research, or social work, students can be confident that the skills they gain will empower them to advocate for and improve the well-being of children and youth in their communities.