Introduction: I founded the YouCAN Project back in August 2021 in Eugene, Oregon when I was in the seventh grade. The map site map and contents, including the mission statements and activities were transferred to site development using Wix. Then, in 2022-2023, I switched to using WordPress. My mission started with the simple fact that there was a lack of streetlights outside my home, which made it quite dangerous to navigate during the evening, and I wanted to find some solutions to these local neighborhood issues. The best option was using the local government for help.
I then asked myself, what other problems can we solve in collaboration with local governments and organizations while utilizing the civic tools we have access to? Now residing in Gainesville, Florida, working with Grace Marketplace along with the Bread of the Mighty Foodbank, we are working together to end homelessness and food insecurity.
Connecting neighborhoods with the people already working for them
The Youth Civic Action Network (YouCAN) empowers young people to connect neighborhoods with community organizations, including nonprofits, by promoting civic engagement and service. Through initiatives such as reporting local issues — like litter and potholes — and organizing donation drives, YouCAN helps address community needs and fosters meaningful partnerships between residents and organizations working for the public good.
Resident & organization matchmaking
Linking residents directly with the nonprofits and service organizations built to help them.
Neighborhood issue reporting
Documenting local issues, like litter and potholes, so they reach the people who can fix them.
Civic engagement & donation drives
Promoting service among young people and organizing drives that meet real community needs.
YouCAN (Youth Civic Action Network) Project 