Vast and varied studies exist on community programs to promote success for underprivileged youth. Many studies also exist on community development through community engagement. However, very few studies link the two. Some recent studies, though, show that encouraging youth engagement in community projects which both develop the community at large and equip students with the skills to engage in their communities can have mutual benefits for all those involved. This study seeks to bridge the gap between promoting success of underprivileged youth and community engagement to promote child participation in community projects as a means to increase interest in community development and develop children’s social and political capital. The study involved underserved middle and high school students in various steps of a university campus hosted fundraiser to personally engage them in community activity and inspire confidence and future-oriented goals.
