The six partners who in 2007 made formal commitments to work with the Forum to advance the Ready by 21 Challenge represent the education, government, non-profit, business and community philanthropy sectors. Each was chosen because they had pledged to do business differently and sought out the Forum to help in some way.

"The Challenge" is the definitive guide to the key ideas and resources behind the Ready by 21 Challenge.

The Dilemma. Too few young people are entering adulthood ready and our collective efforts to make a difference are far too fragmented to have a big impact.

This Webinar, held on December 3rd, 2007, offered an opportunity to hear firsthand about how youth from across the country are successfully engaging with policymakers in formal bodies called youth councils. The Forum also discussed the key principles of creating an effective youth council, which are outlined in the paper Building Effective Youth Councils.

In Maryland, there are many agencies, organizations, task forces and coalitions focused on various pieces of the puzzle needed to ensure that all youth are ready for adulthood. While aiming for similar ultimate goals, these groups are often working in parallel and occasionally at cross purposes due to funding streams and grant restrictions.

The guide is designed to help states and localities create or strengthen their own youth councils. It is a synthesis of theory and practice that provides a general framework for thinking about youth councils, explaining the principles for youth action and the importance of youth engagement.