Founded in 1981, Foro's mission is to promote programs and policies that expand social, cultural and economic opportunities for all youth in Uruguay. It does this through managing programs, raising awareness, and influencing national public institutions and policies. Since 1985, it has been experimenting with alternative approaches to combatting the problem of youth un-and under-employment, working to have the best practices adapted and replicated in the formal education system. Foro also provides support to small and medium sized companies run by youth; space for youth culture demonstrations; services for the defense of youth's civil rights; programs for young people in poverty, without homes, and in disadvantageous situations; and programs regarding young women, domestic violence and sexual abuse.