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Dayton’s youth-driven initiative launches to empower teens to take charge of their future

Dayton, Ohio – Learn to Earn Dayton, in collaboration with Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims, Jr., has officially launched “My Voice. My City. My Future.,” an initiative designed to empower Dayton’s youth to shape their own futures. This new program invites young leaders to actively participate in developing a plan that addresses their needs and aspirations, making their voices central to the community’s vision.

The community kick-off event is set for Monday, September 16, at 4 p.m. at the Dayton Metro Library’s Bassani Theatre Off Third, located at 215 E. Third St. The event will bring together students, families, community members, and youth-serving organizations to learn about the initiative. Attendees will hear student testimonials, participate in a mini data walk, and review the results of a recent student survey that will help identify priority areas for the initiative’s action plan.

Empowering Young Leaders to Shape Their Future

“Setting our youth up for productive and successful lives is the work of our entire community,” said Mayor Mims. “It’s key that we align our resources and center the voices of our young people in a shared plan for supporting their futures.”

Following the kick-off, a series of listening sessions will take place this fall, offering teens an opportunity to share their insights and help shape the community’s future. Two public sessions are scheduled for October 2 at Thurgood Marshall High School and October 28 at the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton. All teens who live or attend school in Dayton are encouraged to participate and contribute their ideas toward creating a stronger community designed by and for teens.

A Community-Led Vision for Youth Success

Stacy Schweikhart, CEO of Learn to Earn Dayton, highlighted the importance of youth involvement in building a community where teenagers can thrive. “The first step forward to create a community where teenagers have the opportunity to contribute to building their own future is for adults to step back, to listen and to acknowledge the expertise and brilliance of our young leaders,” she said. “We are surrounded by greatness–just waiting for their opportunity to shine and to make our city brighter than we could ever imagine.”

The “My Voice. My City. My Future.” initiative underscores the commitment of Dayton’s leaders to work collaboratively with young people, valuing their perspectives and ideas. By involving teens in the planning process, the program aims to develop actionable strategies that address the real needs of the community’s youth.

About Learn to Earn Dayton

Learn to Earn Dayton is a regional cradle-to-career organization focused on improving student outcomes through data-driven solutions, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships. Acting as a convener, collaborator, innovator, and incubator, the organization centers youth voices to drive change and create a brighter future for local communities.

For more information about the “My Voice. My City. My Future.” initiative or to learn how to get involved, visit www.learntoearndayton.org/studentvision. The initiative represents a unique opportunity for Dayton’s youth to take an active role in shaping their community, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their futures are supported.

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