3 minute read
Young People First
Building Momentum for Success
As we turn the page and close the chapter on 2024, the Young People First plan starts a new and incredibly important phase in its journey to re-engage youth disconnected or at-risk of disconnection from education and the workforce.
Last year saw the 119K Commission kick off a series of informational forums engaging youth, parents, service providers and educators in communities across Connecticut. The goal was to gather as much information about the challenges facing youth in the state today and build the Young People First plan that delivers the necessary adjustments to create environments for young people to find positive opportunities for success.
With the release of the Young People First plan in October, and recognizing the significant support of the plan, CCM collaborated with multiple stakeholders such as the School State Finance Project and the United Way of Connecticut on press events and informational hearings. The events delivered a resounding message from the educational arena, youth support services, municipal leaders, as well as hearing from youth from around the state regarding the significance of the crisis and stressing the time for action is now!
As we turn our attention to 2025 and the latest iteration of legislative work for the citizens of Connecticut, legislators play a crucial role in ensuring state youth are viewed as partners in a journey that determines much of Connecticut’s future. Many of the young people the report identifies are the of future Connecticut. They each deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential. Inaction and a commitment to the status quo leads to rising unemployment, increased reliance on government services and ultimately reducing the state’s competitiveness in emerging industries and ensures long-term economic decline. Through efforts such as coordinated support, improved conditions for youth success, coalition-building, and increased capacity in education, workforce, and social sectors, Young People First stands at the crossroads of enhancing opportunity and status quo for our state’s future.
The Young People First plan is in the early phases of implementation, with efforts underway to build coalitions, coordinate support, and establish the necessary infrastructure to achieve its long-term goals.
CCM has also established The CCM Foundation for Youth, a 501c4, that is designed to support our state’s youth with resources, mentorship, and advocacy for state and community support and fostering opportunities where youth can develop skills and connections to navigate life’s challenges and achieve their aspirations.
Discussions are ongoing to kickstart a few of the important initial steps for the Plan’s development and implementation. A critical piece is the ongoing component of educating and enlightening a state to the significance of the crisis and the importance of a call-to-action in creating successful outcomes for our state’s youth. Secondly, the establishment of an Office of Youth Success that will play an integral role in coordinating the services many disconnected youth need. And, working with stakeholders to completely overhaul the state’s 211 system into a more functional — modern day — portal that will help youth easily find and access services through an app on their phone.
The upcoming legislative session is important to these efforts in terms of strengthening the ongoing support. However, just as important is encouraging and engaging those that are new to the issue or are simply in need of additional information to help make an informed decision.
Ensuring the next generation of state leaders are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and lay the groundwork for a thriving and equitable future is in Connecticut’s best interests.
