Spirit of Youth

Spirit of Youth is dedicated to creating, promoting and recognizing youth involvement in communities across Alaska.

Spirit of Youth unites Alaskans of all ages and walks of life. Spirit of Youth is a youth-directed organization, with leadership provided by the Teen Advisory Council, a diverse group of high school students who contribute to all aspects of the organization.

Since its inception in 1998, Spirit of Youth has shared thousands of positive stories about Alaska’s youth through its Positive Media and Recognition program utilizing television, radio, print and public recognition.

“Local news stories about youth tend to treat adolescence as a source of personal problems and social disruptions that need to be addressed by adults. Missing from most news accounts is coverage of young people as productive workers, volunteers in their communities or active members of families – the very things that might promote a more positive image of youth culture.”
-- "WHAT’S THE MATTER WITH KIDS TODAY: TELEVISION COVERAGE OF ADOLESCENTS IN AMERICA,” FRAMEWORKS INSTITUTE 2005

Spirit of Youth's Alaska Teen Media Institute brings youth voices to public attention and offers opportunities for artistic and career exploration while engaging young people in issues that are important to them. ATMI functions as a newsroom where, guided by experienced journalists, youth work as reporters, editors and producers. Stories are aired on radio and television and published online. Youth involved in ATMI become more engaged in their communities, impact issues, and affect lives. Student reporters explore the political landscape, develop opinions and learn how to share those opinions in helpful ways.