Our work: youth development

Anchorage Youth Development Coalition

Helping Anchorage youth thrive

Anchorage Youth Development Coalition (AYDC) wants to see Anchorage youth thrive. For 25 years, AYDC has united Anchorage’s youth-serving community. AYDC creates a space to share knowledge, support each other’s work, and stand together on issues affecting young people.

What AYDC offers

Coalition Meetings and Events

Connect with Anchorage’s youth-serving community at AYDC’s monthly coalition meetings. Share resources and explore youth development topics together.

Do I need to pay to join AYDC coalition meetings?

AYDC meetings are free to attend. AYDC financial sponsorships are welcome, but are not required.

How can I learn about upcoming AYDC events?

Join AYDC’s newsletter to stay tuned into upcoming opportunities.

Youth Matter Grants

Grants that help young people ages 12 to 24 lead projects that build connection, safety, and well-being in Anchorage. Youth get training and support for youth-adult partnerships along the way.

Second Order Change

A learning series for youth-serving adults. Participants build personal and interpersonal skills alongside peers from across Anchorage, including managing emotions and making thoughtful decisions.

Professional Development

Participate in workshops and skills-based trainings grounded in Positive Youth Development. Leave with practical strategies.

About AYDC

AYDC's Vision

All of Anchorage’s youth thrive.

AYDC's Mission

Promote and integrate strength-based strategies through advocacy, resources, networking, and training to ensure that all Anchorage youth thrive.

AYDC's Purpose

Advance positive youth development.

Learn about AYDC’s mission, leadership, and history.

Stories of Impact

“What I value most is the gathering of diverse organizations that all work with youth. There is nowhere else I can think of where we all cross paths.”

— AYDC coalition member

Most AYDC members find real value in taking part. In 2026, 88% said their involvement was valuable.

AYDC also offers Professional Development. These are sessions that help people build skills for their work. In 2026, 94% of participants were satisfied, and 90% planned to use what they learned.

Those who took part in Second Order Change improved in all 21 skills measured. Nine out of ten would recommend it to a coworker.

After the 2026 Youth Matter Grants projects, 85% of youth agreed they matter to people in their community.