"I Feel Safe Out Here": Youth Perspectives on Community-Based Organizations in Urban Neighborhoods

Objective: Community-based youth organizations (CBYOs) serve a variety of roles in urban neighborhoods, and past research has examined the impact of structured youth programs on youth outcomes. However, we rarely hear directly from youth about their perspectives on the CBYOs they frequent. This study aims to understand the perspectives of urban youths of color on CBYOs and why they see CBYOs as important, specifically in a neighborhood affected by violence. Methods: We used qualitative interviews from 74 youths of color living in high-poverty areas of Rochester, New York. Focusing on comprehensive youth centers that offered a wide variety of structured and unstructured activities, we used an inductive analysis to identify how the youths describe the role of CBYOs in their lives and for their community. Findings: Participants identified key components of unstructured CBYO time (i.e., time outside of programmed activity), including use of spaces to build relationships, access to resources, and opportunities for youth voice and engagement. These interrelated components contributed to feelings of relational, physical, and community safety in the context of neighborhood violence. Conclusions: These findings document the CBYO elements that that hold particular value for urban youths of color and have implications for how CBYOs can best serve youth needs.