BridgeDetroit, the nonprofit newsroom serving Detroit, has completed an eight‑month outreach effort focused on the city’s teenagers. The engagement editor, Bryce Huffman, explained that the project began after a grant from the American Press Institute and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, allowing the newsroom to visit high‑school classrooms, conduct a Youth Engagement Survey and launch a group of Youth Ambassadors.
Survey reaches more than 400 Detroit teens
Students ages 13‑19 were invited to answer questions about how they view city government, local news media, career readiness, public safety, infrastructure and other issues that affect their daily lives. More than 400 responses have been collected, giving the newsroom a clear picture of the hopes and concerns of Detroit’s next generation.
Findings shape coverage and future projects
According to Huffman, the survey results have already influenced BridgeDetroit’s reporting, making it easier to locate teen voices for stories where their perspective is essential. The newsroom also created a “Civic Engagement Guide,” a printable or digital zine designed to help teens learn where and how to become involved in local civic life.
Youth Ambassadors amplify the message
A group of young volunteers, called BridgeDetroit Youth Ambassadors, have produced short videos that spread awareness of the newsroom’s work and civic‑information resources to their peers. The effort highlights the importance of giving young people the tools and confidence to voice their opinions, even when adults may disagree.
Looking ahead
As the grant period ends and schools resume, BridgeDetroit plans to continue supporting teen involvement in the community. Huffman emphasized that today’s students will be tomorrow’s leaders, and that equipping them with knowledge and confidence is essential for the city’s future.
Readers can view the Youth Ambassadors’ videos on Instagram and download the Civic Engagement Guide from BridgeDetroit’s website.
Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.
