Young People’s Experiences of YouthSites

Abstract YouthSites do not exist because of government mandates, laws about education, or because of city-sponsored anticrime or health and wellness initiatives, although those may certainly influence organizations. YouthSites exist because of the young people who participate in them, and so this chapter turns a spotlight on them. The chapter explores what matters to YouthSites participants. Why do thousands of young people voluntarily spend their time at YouthSites, choosing to explore creative energy, hone skills, and develop relationships there and not somewhere else? This chapter discusses the affective experiences and reflective responses that speak to why youth arts organizations have become an essential aspect of urban infrastructures for youth and why so many young people value their experiences at YouthSites.