We often group anyone under 40 as "young people," but children, teens, and young adults represent distinct life stages with unique needs. Each group requires tailored approaches that address their developmental stages, social dynamics, economic circumstances, and family situations. In a city facing one of the highest rates of concentrated poverty among black and Latino children nationwide, we must invest in programs, initiatives, and spaces that nurture their minds and guide them towards positive activities.

Children: The youngest members of our community are our most vulnerable, they depend entirely on us…..the adults. Essential components for a healthy start in life include:

• Prenatal care

• Early education and intervention services

• Full attendance and engagement in school-age academics

• Lead and toxin-free living environments

• Various support services for families

• Safety

The Syracuse City School District oversee education of our children, while Onondaga County, public health and child and family services. The City of Syracuse must continue to be an active partner in solution-driven efforts that include supporting the needs of the adults in children's lives.

Teenagers: The complexity of teenage years is challenging enough. Add to this, struggles with mental health, anxiety, safety concerns, understanding social norms, and adult responsibilities that many teens face prematurely. Despite their adult-like physical appearance, their brains are still cognitively and emotionally developing. Actions once deemed youthful experimentation may now lead to tragic results. Specific strategies are required to address the challenges they face on a daily basis.

Young Adults: Ask a high school graduate or college student their greatest desire, and many will say, "getting out of my parents' house!" As my 30+ year old daughter says: "adulting is overrated!" The reality of managing continued education, entry into the workforce, and for some, parenting, makes "adulting" challenging. Their needs require specific strategies, particularly as they choose whether to stay in or leave Syracuse. Unlike their parents or grandparents, their options for "adulting" look different. Their pursuit of a career requires work-life balance. If they decide to explore the world, we want them to eventually return home.

As Mayor I will:

• Identify partners to add recreational opportunities for families, children, and teenagers to simply have fun.

• Fund the Summer Youth Employment Program, providing summer internships and after-school work opportunities.

• Fund city-owned community centers serving youth during summer and after-school hours.

• Fund the Syracuse Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) to foster program growth.

• Focus on park design and programming for teenagers and differently abled residents.

• Advocate for and defend our SCSD kids and build upon partnerships with SCSD's successful Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs and existing workforce development initiatives to provide our youth with the skills necessary for future jobs.

• Commission a task force of 20 and 30+ year-old residents to identify their work-life balance desires, including but not limited to:

  • Business development

  • Cultural centers

  • Safe entertainment options

  • Arts and music industry growth

By tailoring our approach to meet the distinct needs of children, teens, and young adults, we will create pathways in our city where the next generation chooses to put down roots.