uMAP

UMAP is a process used to engage youth in the community mapping process. Through civic engagement, the younger population is given the opportunity to share what they know about their community. Facilitated by city agencies, geography teachers, public health practitioners, youth commissions and other youth serving organizations, uMAP recognizes the voices of the youth and gives them the chance to influence various aspects of neighborhood change, such as infrastructure, social services, safety, affordable housing and access to recreation.

As described on the website, the uMAP process involves a number of steps for both the facilitators and participants.
1. Define the target area
2. Define the topic(s) to be covered
3. Prepare maps (aerial photographs recommended)
4. Develop a map legend and coding system
5. Orient the young people to the map
6. Ask students to label map
7. Hold a follow-up discussion with students about what has been mapped
8. Create map output (possible with Microsoft Publisher, best with GIS software)
9. Share composite maps with the young people
The youth can use the composite maps to recognize patterns across the built and social environments, and to determine a list of priorities for their communities. UMAP suggests that the youth share their action plan and results with decision-makers via presentations, neighborhood guidebooks or atlases, public meetings, youth councils or commissions, or media releases.

UMAP provides an Adult Facilitator Guide for adult practitioners, teachers, agency and public officials, parents and community leaders who would like to facilitate community mapping projects with young people. This guide can be found on the uMAP website.