This manual focuses on how to conceptualize, structure, and facilitate the participation of young people in the community development process. It shows how empowering young people by including them in local initiatives can create feelings of solidarity and respect for the environment, for public institutions, and for the public authorities that run and serve them. It is based on rigorous comparative research methodology in sites worldwide and anchored in the views of children and youth. The manual provides a framework for planning participatory projects and building institutional and political support for implementation. Chapters 1 and 2 present basic concepts about youth participation in community development. Chapter 3 discusses the logistical issues of putting together a participatory project. Chapter 4 provides an approach for thinking about the overall process design to ensure an effective program. Chapter 5 explains how to get underway. Chapter 6 presents a participation toolkit, offering an overview of the basic methods that can be used to facilitate young people's participation. Chapter 7 provides examples of how evaluation results can be translated into action programs. Two appendices offer data collection guidelines and an annotated list of resources. (SM)