Disconnected youth by race and Hispanic origin.
Twenty years ago, even as manufacturing jobs moved offshore, young people could still gain a foothold in the workforce through neighbourhood stores and restaurants. Over the past decade, youth could find a career track in construction, fueled by the housing boom. In today's economy, the options seem to have disappeared, and America's young people stand last in line for jobs. This KIDS COUNT policy report suggests that business, government, philanthropy and communities must come together to create opportunities and build a stronger workforce for the future. Now is the time to undertake a flexible, focused and nimble approach to strengthen our systems and create new opportunities for disconnected youth.
The severity of the current downturn and the jobless recovery are likely to have deep and long-term economic effects on both society and young people, particularly disconnected youth.
America is losing ground to other countries in producing more educated and skilled workers.