The International Organization for Adolescents

IOFA is an independent, nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status in the United States. IOFA was founded in 1999 in response to a gap in programming and services for adolescents around the world. Based in Chicago, IOFA is working in partnership with local organizations in over 20 countries to develop and implement sustainable programs and services for youth.

Our Mission
IOFA is committed to advancing the health and well-being of adolescents throughout the world. IOFA’s activities seek to foster the physical, mental, emotional and psychological development of adolescents.

Why Focus on Adolescents?
According to the United Nations World Youth Report 2007, today’s generation of young people is the largest in human history. Nearly half the world’s population— more than 3 billion people—are under the age of 25. Almost 20 percent of the world's population is between the ages of 15-24. Nearly 45 percent of all youth survive on less than $2 a day, and some 238 million on less than $1. While adolescence is supposed to be a time for growth and learning, for many, especially those living in poverty, it is a time of heightened risk. During this critical phase of their lives, adolescents are faced with questions about health, safety, goals and aspirations. The decisions made and actions taken during this period can often have lifelong consequences. Yet, adolescents continue to be overlooked and underserved in many of the countries around the world.

IOFA’s Unique Approach to Serving Adolescents
IOFA seeks to tackle emerging problems facing young people through partnerships, coalition building and the innovative approach of social connectivity. Social connectivity is the magnet that brings networks of people and information together with the goal of advancing the health and well-being of adolescents. Social connectivity extends beyond what has traditionally constituted a social network - family, neighbors, and peers - to include the global community.

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©2008 International Organization for Adolescents (IOFA). All rights reserved.