A Message from the President and Chairman

Rarely have events at the center of the world’s attention so clearly made the case for IYF’s mission.

As we write this letter, the world is changing dramatically, with young people leading the charge. They are taking to the streets in massive numbers in the Middle East, across northern Africa and in other regions around the globe, demanding a voice—and a role—in their country’s future. We may not yet know the final outcome of this remarkable surge in youth-led, pro-democracy movements. But we do know this: They are writing history.

We also know that IYF’s mandate to advance youth development and support exponential change is more relevant now than ever. Widespread economic struggles continue to drive youth unemployment rates to all-time highs—between 80 and 100 million are without work. The good news: seemingly everywhere, government and industry leaders are recognizing that the formula for progress includes listening to the concerns of our young people, broadening their opportunities to earn a living and empowering them as agents of positive change.

Well before the widely publicized street protests, IYF worked tirelessly throughout 2010 to push these youth development issues to the top of the global agenda. Our Youth Leadership & Livelihoods Conference last October was a perfect example. We convened thought leaders from across the globe, and around Washington, DC, to debate new strategies and identify best practices for tackling the youth unemployment crisis and highlighting the power of youth-led initiatives aimed at social change.

Our calls to action attracted renewed attention. Despite the weak economy, we enjoyed one of our most successful fundraising years to date. Numerous funders and donors stepped forward to put effective youth employment and leadership solutions in motion. New commitments from longtime partners such as USAID, Microsoft and Starbucks helped us multiply our impact by introducing proven programs into more communities around the world—extending our reach in Palestine, Jordan, Egypt and the Caribbean. Laureate Education, Inc. also pledged at the Clinton Global Initiative to expand YouthActionNet® into nine new countries—reaching 500 new social entrepreneurs worldwide.

These many victories didn’t happen by accident. They resulted directly from the persistent dedication of IYF staff members. We asked a lot of them in the past 12 months. Time after time, they delivered—and we are especially grateful for their efforts. You’ll have the chance to meet a few of these inspiring professionals within this report. They believe so strongly in our work and they exemplify our mission every day. Because of them, more young people are finding work, finding hope and finding their place—both in history and in the world.

Our work is far from over. Right now, IYF is moving forward with our plans to sustain and build on the momentum gained in 2010. We will disseminate our key findings and keep crucial youth issues in the world spotlight. Wherever and whenever expertise in youth development is needed, we’ll be there to perpetuate positive outcomes for today’s younger generation. With your continued support, we see infinite possibilities ahead.

Sincerely,