In Long Beach, California, young people aren’t just included in civic engagement—they are leading it. The city has become a model for meaningful youth participation, giving young residents real power, resources, and platforms to shape their community.
A City Built on Youth Empowerment
Home to over 120,000 young people aged 5 to 24, Long Beach doesn’t just recognize its youth population — it activates it. From arts programs to policy councils, the city ensures young voices influence decisions, fostering a culture where leadership is defined by passion, not age.
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Youth Power PB: Budgeting by and for Youth
One standout initiative is Youth Power PB, a participatory budgeting program where young residents propose, campaign, and vote on projects funded by city dollars. Over $700,000 has already been allocated to youth-led projects, with the goal of surpassing $1 million in 2025. This hands-on approach gives young people not just a say, but true ownership in city development.
Office of Youth Development: From Plans to Action
To institutionalize youth engagement, Long Beach launched the Office of Youth Development within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its five-year Youth Strategic Plan outlines 71 action items focused on mental health, education, economic opportunities, and community safety — all co-created with young residents.
Youth Advisory Council: Real Seats at the Table
The Youth Advisory Council, composed of 11 high school and college students from every city district, plays a direct role in shaping policies. Council members advise leaders on pressing issues like poverty, violence, and health equity, ensuring diverse youth perspectives influence city governance.
S.T.R.O.N.G. Beach: Building Leadership Through Community
S.T.R.O.N.G. Beach (Standing Together to Reach Our Next Generation) unites various city programs to offer mentorship, leadership training, and peer connections, especially during summer. Its success has led to its expansion as a two-year initiative, emphasizing consistent support over one-time events.
Youth Poet Laureate Program: Art as Advocacy
Partnering with the Arts Council for Long Beach and the Public Library, the Youth Poet Laureate Program celebrates young literary talent. Winners like 2024 Laureate Helena Donato-Sapp lead workshops and public readings, using poetry as a vehicle for community engagement and expression.
FutureLB: Bridging Potential and Opportunity
The city’s FutureLB employment center connects youth with internships, job training, and career resources. Over 800 young people have already benefited, receiving critical support to transition from education to employment.
Public Service Corps & Paid Fellowships
Long Beach invests heavily in youth workforce development, offering paid internships and fellowships through programs like the Public Service Corps. Last year alone, over $850,000 was dedicated to wages, giving students real-world experience and financial empowerment.
Space Beach Camp: STEM for the Future
Recognizing the growing aerospace sector, Long Beach launched Space Beach Camp, an immersive STEM program connecting youth with local aerospace companies. This initiative turns curiosity into career ambitions through hands-on learning.
Youth Festival & Be S.A.F.E.: Celebrating Community
Long Beach’s annual Youth Festival combines celebration with empowerment, featuring performances, workshops, and community-building events. Additionally, the Be S.A.F.E. program transforms city sites into safe, enriching spaces for youth during summer, emphasizing public safety through community care.
A Network of Support, Growth, and Leadership
What makes Long Beach exceptional is the integration of these programs into a cohesive strategy. From civic leadership to creative expression and workforce development, the city’s approach ensures every young person has a pathway to participate, lead, and succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Youth Power PB in Long Beach?
A participatory budgeting program that allows youth to propose, vote, and fund community projects using city resources.
How does Long Beach support youth leadership?
Through initiatives like the Youth Advisory Council, participatory budgeting, and leadership programs like S.T.R.O.N.G. Beach.
What is the Office of Youth Development?
A city department focused on implementing the Youth Strategic Plan, promoting mental health, education, and community safety for youth.
How does Long Beach help young people find jobs?
Via FutureLB, offering job training, internships, and career planning, plus paid fellowships through Public Service Corps.
What is the Youth Poet Laureate Program?
An annual competition that uplifts young poets, providing platforms for public readings, workshops, and community outreach.
How is Long Beach promoting STEM careers?
Through Space Beach Camp, an immersive program connecting youth with local aerospace companies for hands-on STEM experiences.
What is S.T.R.O.N.G. Beach?
A program that builds leadership and mentorship opportunities for youth, especially during summer, through community partnerships.
How does Long Beach ensure youth safety in summer?
Through Be S.A.F.E., turning city sites into safe, activity-filled spaces for youth to gather and grow.
Are Long Beach youth involved in city decision-making?
Yes, through programs like the Youth Advisory Council and participatory budgeting initiatives.
How does Long Beach celebrate youth culture?
With events like the annual Youth Festival, combining entertainment with empowerment and community engagement.
Conclusion
Long Beach proves that when you give young people real power, they create meaningful change. Through strategic programs and genuine inclusion, the city has built a model where youth voices are not only heard but drive progress. Investing in young leaders isn’t just shaping their future — it’s defining the future of Long Beach itself.