Action plan to re-engage CT’s at-risk youth is needed now

“Young People First.” That’s the title and focus of a newly released report by the 119K Commission — an initiative led by mayors of towns and cities across the state, and coordinated by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities — and it could not be more succinct or urgent. The comprehensive report outlines a clear path forward for Connecticut to effectively address — without delay — the ongoing crisis currently impacting tens of thousands of disconnected and at-risk youth all across our state, in communities large and small. A year ago, organizations — including United Way of Connecticut, Dalio Education and scores of community-based nonprofits that are on the front lines addressing the challenges facing these young people — implored the state legislature to take meaningful and productive steps to respond. Initial actions were taken, but there was little doubt, then and now, that much more needed to be done if progress was truly to be achieved and sustained. United Way of Connecticut proudly built a coalition of nonprofit organizations whose voices have continued to not only amplify the challenges, but suggest solutions within our reach. We all share a bold commitment to our young people reflected in the 119K Commission report. Addressing the barriers to the success of these young people is unmistakenly vital for our communities and economy, a fact also recognized by supportive business leaders in Connecticut. This crisis is widespread because economic hardship is widespread. Today, more than 564,000 ALICE (asset limited, income constrained and employed) households are struggling across every zip code in our state. The 119,000 young people identified in this report were likely raised in an ALICE family. Without support, they will likely raise their children in an ALICE family, too. Addressing this crisis with focus and urgency can break this generational cycle. It’s very well understood that the more stability there is in the family, the better the odds are that a young person will have what they need to find their own path, address their own challenges, weather the difficult experiences of adolescence and make the most of their talents, skills and abilities. Too many families in our state are struggling financially, including at-risk and disconnected young people who are raising children of their own. The pressure is crushing when you’re so worried about paying the bills, keeping a roof over your head, putting food on the table and keeping the lights on. Proven solutions Given the drastic 13% increase in ALICE households since 2019, we’re headed in the wrong direction, and we have no time to lose. The report outlines a comprehensive 10-year plan to cut the number of at-risk and disconnected youth in half, arguably the minimum that should be done. It includes “ready-to-implement” solutions that Connecticut should prioritize for immediate investment in light of this crisis: Support an expanded and refundable child tax credit at the state and federal levels to provide families with direct financial support and relieve financial stress. Establish a critically important integrated case management structure to coordinate the wide range of services a young person needs to thrive across different organizations and sectors, so that these young people don’t have to knock on a dozen different doors to find the help they need. Enhance the 211 system to reduce wait times and provide targeted flex funds to cover gaps in existing services to ensure that this trusted resource keeps young people on track. United Way of Connecticut is ready to be a partner in such a sustained, multifaceted initiative. The nonprofit organizations we have been working closely with on these issues have track records of success, and have demonstrated that with sufficient resources and enhanced coordination, they can unlock these proven solutions. Together, we can help every young person realize their full potential. It’s a win-win and it’s urgent. Lisa Tepper Bates is president and CEO of the United Way of Connecticut.