When youth “disconnect” from school or the workforce, their limited education and work experience affect future earnings and health, and they double their likelihood of living in poverty. In addition, disconnected youth also have lower wages, higher rates of incarceration and unemployment, and their mental and physical health suffers.
Youth who have access to programs that promote empowerment, mindfulness, and service-learning are more likely to connect to experiences that increase self-regulation, their value in the community, and exposure to career opportunities. Together with our partners, we fight for opportunities for disconnected youth by:
When youth are equipped with the skills they need to qualify for work that pays a family-sustaining wage, they take their first steps to self-sufficiency as adults. Exposure to career-connected education, learn-and-earn opportunities, apprenticeship programs, transitional and paid on-the-job training experiences create pathways to livable wages. Together with our partners, we fight for opportunities for our youth by:
50K
youth aged 15–25 will reconnect to school or work with your support.
Anthony
Despite knowing that he wanted a better life, Anthony was arrested at age 14. He joined United Way Impact Partner The Bridge, which helped him…
Give
When you give, you are helping us drive real, measurable change in this region; in the neighborhoods where we live, work and play. Join the movement to end poverty with a gift to support the Impact Fund.
Volunteer
Whether you are interested in tutoring, mentoring, or spending time lending a hand to someone in need, you can join us in making a difference. Find a volunteer project that fits your needs and interests.
