Youth ADAPT NC: A Participatory Action Research Project With Hispanic Youth Aimed at Enhancing Career Opportunities

Abstract

Participatory action research (PAR) involves community members as co-researchers throughout the research process and takes collective action on the knowledge produced. This article covers an application of PAR in a study about job access for Hispanic immigrant youth in Charlotte, North Carolina, an emerging immigrant gateway. I offer practical and detailed advice on structuring PAR projects and working with youth groups and community partners, with the hope of helping others implement similar projects in research, educational, and practice settings. Both process and outcomes can be beneficial for participants and researchers, and advance scientific knowledge and social change.