CINCINNATI (December 6, 2022) — The transition from adolescence to adulthood can be tough under the best circumstances, but youth from low-income communities face additional challenges.

Tocqueville members gathered to learn how our community is rallying support for young adults. Read more about the key takeaways and how you can help.

Youth from low-income communities face unique challenges when transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. United Way focuses on this work through the efforts of our recently announced NextGen Success investment portfolio, which is dedicated to ensuring low-income youth have support and a clear pathway to economic stability.

At the Tocqueville Society First Tuesday gathering on Dec. 6, members explored how our community is rallying support for young adults.

Key takeaways:

• College is a viable option for some, but students may need additional support once they reach campus, as well as after graduation as they transition into the workforce. This is particularly true for first-generation students.
• For many young adults, it may be more beneficial to enter the workforce immediately after high school. More effort is needed to ensure they graduate prepared or have the support necessary to make the transition.
• Workforce and community partners can fill the gap to build transitional programs. Opportunities that provide youth with additional training after high school, but before entering the workforce, can be beneficial.
• As a community, we need to provide more opportunities and make youth aware of them earlier, so they can explore their interests and abilities and then align them to those opportunities.

Tocqueville members and others in the community who do not work directly with youth have opportunities to make a difference. Panelists noted that one of the best ways we can all support youth is to reframe the narrative around success after high school. There are many ways to prepare for a career, and exposure to various career opportunities is key.

Thanks to our moderator, Mary Stagaman, and panelists who helped guide our conversation.

• Colleen Hanycz, Xavier University
• Damian Hoskins, Elementz Hip Hop Cultural Art Center
• Monica Posey, Cincinnati State
• Tyran Stallings, D.A.D. Initiative

Thanks to UC Health, our ongoing sponsor for Tocqueville Society gatherings.