Game Changers - Linking Rural Opportunity Youth to Better Economic Futures

Explore innovative programs addressing the challenges faced by Opportunity Youth in rural America through this informative panel discussion. Discover how initiatives in Appalachia, the Mississippi Delta, and Tribal West are successfully connecting disconnected 16-24-year-olds to career training, higher education, and employment opportunities. Learn about the unique obstacles rural communities face, including higher rates of youth disconnection compared to urban and suburban areas. Gain insights into effective strategies for youth engagement, including creative placements, employer partnerships, and educational collaborations. Hear inspiring stories of youth advocacy and success, and understand the importance of strengthening pipelines to post-secondary education. Examine the role of diverse stakeholders and unusual partners in creating sustainable solutions for rural Opportunity Youth, ultimately contributing to their personal growth, community development, and the nation's future.