Addressing Youth Disconnection In The Los Angeles Region

This report is supported by the Alliance for Children’s Rights, the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, The Aspen Forum for Community Solutions at the Aspen Institute, the Walter S. Johnson Foundation, and Stuart Foundation; and is conducted by New Ways to Work, a leading non-profit consulting firm specializing in workforce development.

In 2023, over 123,000 youth experienced disconnection in Los Angeles County, 48,000 of whom lived in the City of Los Angeles, highlighting systemic barriers that persist despite post-pandemic recovery. Opportunity Youth face significant barriers to success, including systemic inequities, poverty, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and discrimination.

Geographically, certain areas within LA county, such as Van Nuys, Watts, and Westmont, had disconnection rates well above the regional average, emphasizing the need for targeted, place-based interventions. Similarly, within the city, neighborhoods like Boyle Heights and Baldwin Hills had notably high concentrations of Opportunity Youth. These geographic disparities highlight the critical importance of localized strategies that address the specific needs of communities with concentrated challenges.

The findings from this report emphasize that reducing youth disconnection requires a multi-faceted, equity-focused approach that addresses systemic barriers and prioritizes inclusivity. Education systems must adapt to provide accessible, flexible pathways that meet diverse needs. Workforce development programs should emphasize quality jobs and meaningful opportunities, particularly for marginalized populations. Place-based strategies must prioritize communities with the highest rates of disconnection, and service delivery models should be designed to address the unique challenges faced by young adults aged 19-24.

Please read the report below to see supporting data, complete findings, recommendations and highlighted best practices.

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