Q: What kinds of organizations are included in Future 5000?

A:  We generally say that Future 5000 is a directory of  “progressive youth organizations,” understanding that this can mean a million different things to people.  In our initial research of over 600 organizations, we were guided by the 16 criteria originally developed by the Future 5000 research team. 

These 16 criteria aimed at finding groups that…

1. Are recommended by other organizing peers
2. Are led by young people (under 35, but the younger the better)
3. Work with young people in a manner where young folks have a voice in defining, designing and leading the work being done
4. Have a track record of effectiveness (no time minimum)
5. Have a progressive political analysis
6. Use innovative or original strategies
7. Work with low-income/communities of color
8. Are led by low-income/communities of color
9. Are connectors with a movement-building vision
10. Are democratic or run by consensus
11. Are not well known and deserve more support
12. Give Future 5000 geographic diversity (we aimed for at least two from each state)
13. Give Future 5000 diversity in the spectrum of issues young people face and are organizing around
14. Give Future 5000 diversity in a range of ideologies, strategies and organizing styles
15. Are a good group to call if someone wanted to get involved, write an article, or build a campaign
16. Are sustainable, provided the proper resources and technical assistance.