Group releases report on how to help Connecticut’s disconnected youth

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — There’s a growing population of 119,000 disconnected and at-risk youth in Connecticut.

This week, the 119k Commission, a group dedicated to tackling this crisis, released a new 120-page report and a plan to resolve the issue.

Erica Soares, 24, of Waterbury, spoke during a news conference in Hartford on the report’s release.

“At a young age, I faced challenges most people don’t experience in a lifetime — homelessness, sexual assault, the incarceration of a parent, losing a parent and growing up surrounded by drugs and gangs,” she said.

Soares overcame those struggles and wants to help others do the same.

David Mezard, 28, of Stamford, also shared his story.

“On January 3rd, 2022, I was released from incarceration,” he said. “I came home and I had absolutely nothing. I was homeless. I’m not perfect but I have come so far from where I was.”

Mezard turned his life around, and is now dedicated to helping youth as a leader at the non-profit DOMUS Kids, Inc. The organization helps children overcome significant obstacles that jeopardize their future.

The report by Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) is titled “Young People First: A Bold Plan to Address Connecticut’s Statewide Crisis.” It aims to reengage youth who have become disconnected from school and the workforce.

“When young people struggle it affects more than just their individual futures,” said Rania Das, a New Haven High School student and youth representative. “It impacts the safety, well-being, and long-term prosperity of our community.”

There are 119,000 disconnected or at-risk youth in Connecticut, according to a Dalio Education study. That’s 19% of young people in the state.

In response to that crisis,  the 119k Commission was established, made up of 14 state leaders to come up with solutions.

“One of the most important things, if not the most important thing we could do, was to hear from young people from across the state or what their opportunities were, what their challenges were,” said Joe DeLong, the executive director of Connecticut Conference of Municipalities.

The report provides a 10-year roadmap using four strategic pillars that coordinate supports at the state and local levels to expand youth programs.

It estimates that Connecticut would need to invest $150 million upfront, and $410 million annually, afterward.

“Real support addresses every aspect of a young person’s life, not just their school grades, but their well-being, their mental health, and always with an eye on their future,” Soares said.

As for what’s next state leaders plan to present the report during next year’s legislative session (January 2025) to push for more funding and policies.

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