Joe DeLong, executive director and CEO of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, along with other members of the 119K Commission, recently outlined their strategy to help at-risk and disconnected youth in Connecticut. The commission, made up of municipal leaders from across the state, aims to reconnect 60,000 young people over a 10-year period. DeLong emphasized that while 60,000 is a significant goal, it is just the beginning of the work needed to support all at-risk youth in the state.
The commission has been actively engaging with various stakeholders through regional public forums to gather input and insights into the challenges faced by disconnected youth. These forums have included representatives from children’s agencies, education, youth services, and the judicial system. Mayor Elinor Carbone of Torrington highlighted the importance of hearing directly from residents to understand the unique reasons for youth disconnection in different communities across the state.
In addition to the public forums, the commission has been holding roundtable discussions with disconnected youth to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and needs. These conversations have revealed that many youth lack guidance on career paths, struggle to navigate support systems, and feel disengaged by traditional education offerings. Co-chair Josh Brown shared that many disconnected youth face limited access to recreational activities and opportunities due to financial constraints or lack of awareness.
As the commission works towards finalizing its report, they have identified four strategic pillars to guide their approach. These pillars include building coalitions across public administrations, coordinating service providers, improving conditions for outreach efforts, and increasing capacity for schools, nonprofits, and public institutions to support disconnected youth. Co-chair Andrew Ferguson of Dalio Education emphasized that the commission is still refining its strategy and details may change as they continue their study.
When addressing specific causes of disconnection, such as housing concerns, DeLong emphasized the importance of finding consensus on a broad array of policy areas. By working closely with organizations like The Coalition to End Homelessness, the commission aims to develop recommendations that unite stakeholders and lead to meaningful change. Ultimately, the commission’s goal is to create a comprehensive strategy that addresses the diverse needs of at-risk and disconnected youth in Connecticut.
In conclusion, the 119K Commission’s efforts to support at-risk and disconnected youth in Connecticut are a crucial step towards building a more inclusive and supportive community for all young people. By engaging with stakeholders, listening to residents, and working towards consensus on policy areas, the commission is laying the groundwork for a ten-year strategy that will have a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of youth across the state.