The people involved in YAR are youth and adults who want to make their communities better. Youth volunteers from all backgrounds get involved on YAR boards or in designing and conducting projects that address community needs. Some youth are experienced in community service; others may be new to volunteering. Some live in inner cities; others live in suburban or rural areas.

Youth volunteers often get involved in YAR projects through their neighborhood centers, youth organizations, community foundations, classrooms, and clubs. Adult volunteers, who serve on YAR boards or as adult advisors to YAR projects, include school teachers, parents, community development agents, law enforcement officers, members of the media, philanthropists, businessmen and women, and others.