“This is a bold step toward a future where our youth are prioritized, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.” – Mayor Justin M. Bibb
CLEVELAND – Mayor Justin M. Bibb has taken a significant step toward prioritizing the well-being of Cleveland’s young residents by establishing the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth. Announced Thursday at Cleveland City Hall, the initiative aims to unify resources and amplify youth voices in decision-making, ensuring a brighter future for the city’s children.
The Cabinet, described as a strategic shift rather than another city program, is designed to align city departments, community organizations, and stakeholders in a collaborative effort to improve the lives of young people. Mayor Bibb’s executive order signals a commitment to breaking down silos and creating a coordinated support system for children and families across Cleveland.
“This is a bold step toward a future where our youth are prioritized, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential,” Bibb said. “The creation of the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth is a reflection of our commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for our young residents, paving the way for new opportunities and resources.”
The Cabinet’s approach will be data-driven, focusing on addressing social determinants of health, improving economic mobility, and reducing poverty. Sonya Pryor-Jones, Cleveland’s Chief of Youth and Family Success, emphasized the importance of community collaboration in shaping the initiative.
“In collaboration with our partners, we are implementing data-driven initiatives aimed at addressing social determinants of health, improving economic mobility, reducing poverty, and creating a safer, healthier city for everyone,” Pryor-Jones said. “We are extremely proud of the hard work that went into the development of this cabinet and the insight we received from the community.”
A key element of the initiative is ensuring that young people play a central role in shaping policies that affect them. By listening to youth voices and aligning efforts across multiple sectors, the city hopes to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for its youngest residents.
The initiative has drawn praise from national child advocacy leaders, including Geoff Canada, founder and president of Harlem Children’s Zone.
“The work of investing in our children to ensure they are better positioned to succeed in adulthood is a tall order for any one city agency,” Canada said. “It requires effective collaboration and coordination across all government agencies to align policies that affect children’s long-term well-being, health, and safety. I applaud Mayor Bibb and his administration on the creation of the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth, which will mobilize resources around the city’s priorities for children and facilitate a holistic approach to serving children to drive outcomes. Cleveland’s children cannot afford to wait.”
By establishing the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth, Mayor Bibb’s administration aims to strengthen the city’s commitment to young people, ensuring that they have the support, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive. The initiative is expected to play a critical role in shaping policies that benefit Cleveland’s next generation and create lasting change.
Looking to learn more about Cleveland’s Youth Cabinet? Learn more on the City of Cleveland’s website.