Who are opportunity youth?Who are opportunity youth?
The American Health Podcast
Bloomberg Fellow Anthony Betori and Bloomberg Professor of American Health, Tamar Mendelson, share more about the evolving definition of opportunity youth.
16:18•12 Sept 2024
Understanding Opportunity Youth: A Fresh Perspective
Episode Overview
- Opportunity Youth are young people aged 16-24 who are not in school or working.
- Support systems include workforce development and restorative justice programs.
- Mental and physical health challenges are more prevalent among Opportunity Youth.
- Redefining 'Opportunity Youth' can lead to better support and research.
- Systemic inequities play a significant role in the challenges faced by Opportunity Youth.
“Opportunity Youth are more likely to experience mental health challenges, physical health challenges, teen pregnancy, and STI infections”
Ever wondered who 'Opportunity Youth' are and why they matter? This episode of The American Health Podcast dives into this often overlooked group, defined as young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in school or working. Bloomberg Fellow Anthony Betori and Professor Tamar Mendelson shed light on the history and challenges faced by these youth. They discuss how various support systems, from workforce development programs to restorative justice in schools, aim to help these young individuals.
The conversation touches on the importance of redefining 'Opportunity Youth' to better capture the diverse experiences and needs of this group. By addressing mental and physical health issues, teen pregnancy, and systemic inequities, they argue for a more inclusive and effective approach to public health. You'll find this episode both eye-opening and informative, offering a fresh perspective on how we can better support young people at critical junctures in their lives.
Tune in to understand how these changes could make a real difference.

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