YOUTH

Investing in Our Youth Today for a Stronger Tomorrow

The future of Rochester lies in the hands of our young people. They are the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.

That’s why Mayor Evans has insisted on investing in their growth, providing them with opportunities, and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed. Supporting our youth today means building a stronger, more vibrant city tomorrow.

Malik has expanded resources and opportunities for Rochester’s young people, including:

  • Establishing Mayor’s Mentor Up events, through which more than 100 Rochester high school students have met and engaged with professional mentors and role models
  • Embedding mental health professionals in City R-Centers, encouraging young people to sign up for sessions with trauma-informed counselors to help young people deal with challenging life experiences
  • Investing in e-sports and computer labs in City R-Centers to provide positive outlets and increase technology skills
  •  Increasing the number of Pathways to Peace workers in City schools, ensuring kids learn better ways to handle conflict and can find more productive outlets when frustrated or bored

From access to mentorship to creating pathways for career exploration and entrepreneurship, Malik Evans is committed to giving young Rochesterians the foundation they need to reach their full potential for a bright future.

The vast majority of the young people in Rochester are great kids doing amazing things. Malik will continue to invest in and celebrate youth who will become our future leaders:

  • Investing time and resources to guide Youth Voice One Vision: the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, including being the first guest on YVOV’s new podcast
  • Recognizing more than 100 recipients of the City’s Do the Right Thing Award over a little more than three years
  • Increasing pay for lifeguards at Durand Beach and City pools to inspire more young people to pursue seasonal work opportunities
  • Creating a summer enrichment program that allows 12- and 13-year-olds to earn stipends while learning soft skills like punctuality, professional demeanor and work attire for future job opportunities

“I grew up an R-Center kid. The caring adults in City R-Centers helped mold the man I have become. Strong programming in our recreation centers help set up young people for success in life, and I remain committed to it.” ~ Mayor Evans