Prime Minister David Cameron has announced plans for National Citizen Service pilot schemes to begin after next summer's exam period.
Around 10,000 places will be available to 16 year old school leavers. NCS aims to give them chance to learn new skills that will help them to make a positive contribution to their community.
"The young people of this country are as passionate and idealistic as any generation before - perhaps more passionate", Cameron said.
"But too many teenagers appear lost and feel their lives lack shape and direction. National Citizen Service will help change that."
Cameron pledged to launch a NCS at the start of the recent election campaign. It is a key part of the Big Society agenda that he set out in Liverpool earlier this week.
The pilots will bring people from different backgrounds together, and will involve them spending a minimum of ten days and nights away from home.
Activities are expected to include an outdoor challenge, a set of structured tasks involving visiting and helping the local community and developing skills and, in consultation with local communities, designing a social action task.
Francis Maude, Minister for the Cabinet Office, said that many young people "are ready to stand up and make a difference to their local community".
"We see NCS as key to building a Big Society, to increasing engagement, cohesion and responsibility for young people across the country", he added.