Pedro Cruz outlines youth engagement initiatives at Boston City Council meeting

In the heart of Boston City Hall, a vibrant discussion unfolded on May 22, 2025, as city officials gathered to address the future of youth engagement and employment in the city. The meeting, part of the Ways & Means FY26 Budget discussions, highlighted the collaborative efforts of three key offices: the Office of Youth Engagement and Advancement (OYA), Youth Options Unlimited (YOU), and the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity (YEO).

Pedro Cruz, the executive director of OYA, opened the session by reflecting on the office's two-year journey since its inception. He emphasized the importance of centralizing youth services and fostering partnerships with families and community organizations. Cruz outlined the office's mission to uplift the voices of young people aged 14 to 25 through various initiatives, including the Mayor's Youth Council, which provides paid opportunities for high school students to engage in local government.

Cruz detailed several impactful programs, such as "Youth Lead the Change," a participatory budgeting initiative that empowers youth to decide how to allocate a million dollars of city funds. He also introduced "Boston After Dark," a series of evening events aimed at providing safe recreational activities for young people. The office's commitment to data-driven decision-making was evident in the "Youth Speaks Boston" survey, which aims to gather insights on the needs of the youth population.

Following Cruz, Tanisha DeLeon, deputy director of YOU, shared her personal connection to the city's youth programs, highlighting the transformative power of summer jobs. DeLeon described how the organization serves vulnerable youth, focusing on their potential rather than barriers. With a mission to prevent youth from becoming "proven risk," she emphasized the importance of mentorship and community support in fostering future leaders.

DeLeon reported that the organization has successfully served over 4,000 youth since its founding, providing career exploration cohorts and internships that offer valuable work experience. She underscored the significance of safety in their programming, ensuring that youth can navigate the city comfortably while accessing opportunities.

Lisonbee Vernery, executive director of YEO, concluded the presentations by discussing the office's role in facilitating employment opportunities for Boston's youth. She highlighted the Success Link program, which connects young people with city-funded jobs, and the broader Future Boss initiative that encompasses various employment resources. Vernery shared impressive statistics, noting that last summer, the city served over 10,000 youth through its employment programs, thanks to a substantial investment from the city and external partners.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to empowering Boston's youth through innovative programs and strategic partnerships. As the city looks ahead to the FY26 budget, the discussions revealed a shared vision for a future where every young person has access to opportunities that foster growth, safety, and success. The collaborative efforts of OYA, YOU, and YEO reflect a deep understanding of the challenges faced by youth today and a dedication to creating pathways for their bright futures.