Washington Fund for Youth Development

In the state of Washington, public funding for youth development programs is inadequate and uneven. Washington leaves thousands of youth—especially those in rural areas, in low-income communities, and who identify as Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC)—on the sidelines without access to learning opportunities beyond the school day. This neglect harms all youth and is short-sighted for our communities and Washington.

Unlike the 26 states that have established and increased funding for youth development in recent years, Washington has stepped backwards, nearly wiping out all state investments in this crucial sector. While these times are challenging, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a sustainable fund through which upcoming social media lawsuit settlements can support youth wellbeing.

Establishing the Washington Fund for Youth Development prior to the settlements is a crucial step toward realizing this vision. Now is the time for private and public partners to join together, through bold and urgent action, to meet the moment for youth and our state.