Opportunity Road: The Promise and Challenge of America's Forgotten Youth

A national survey and research report released by America’s Promise Alliance, Civic Enterprises and Peter D. Hart Research Associates shows that nearly three in four (73 percent) of youth ages 16-24 who are not enrolled in school, are unemployed and do not have a college degree are confident and hopeful that they will be able to achieve their goals in life. This survey sought to better understand how these youth, often referred to as “disconnected youth” or “opportunity youth,” became detached from school and work and the challenges they face trying to reconnect to society. Based on the findings from this survey, this report provides a glimpse of the enormous benefits to the nation if we could re-engage these young people and what would be most helpful in getting them back on track.