What defines a youth worker?
An individual (staff or volunteer) who works with or on behalf of children and/or youth to facilitate their personal, social, and educational development and enable them to gain a voice, influence, and place in society as they make the transition from dependence to independence (National Collaboration for Youth).
Why is TAYWD important?
- increased productivity
- effective work
- organizational loyalty
- retention
- recognition of youth-serving organizations, and
- positive growth in the lives of children and youth and our communities.

TAYWD History
In 2009, a group of youth work professionals in Indiana started Thank a Youth Worker Day to help Youth Workers feel good about their profession and raise awareness of the field’s impact on the lives of children and youth.
Inspired by CYC-Net’s efforts to recognize the field of Child and Youth Care Work during the first week of May, ACYCP adopted this practice and took over the sponsorship of Thank A Youth Worker Day in 2015.