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Engaging Young Americans

Nextgen - young people talking

The next generation has the most to gain, and the most at stake, in how we build our nation’s future.

We educate and empower young Americans to become advocates for our country’s economic and fiscal outlook.

45%

Gen Z adults who don’t expect to get any Social Security benefits

Young Americans are set to inherit a budget and economy that leaves them worse off than their parents and less economically secure.

76%

Young Americans who believe that they have the power to change the country

Young people believe strongly in their — and their generation's — political power, but some don't feel qualified to participate.

Grace Armann

Stony Brook, NY

The alarming growth of the national debt is an urgent issue, and it is absolutely vital that college students understand how it affects them.

Makaya Tome

Los Angeles, CA

What we do now makes a huge difference because we do have an opportunity to leave the next generation in a better position than they would be if we don't do anything. We have a big opportunity to do so if we all work together.

Jackson Baker

Colorado Springs, CO

If I believe something different than you and you believe something different than me, that doesn't mean you're not a good person. We can still work together to fix all these issues plaguing our country and in our world right now.

Clayton Elbel

San Antonio, TX

It's hard to pass legislation to tackle these really big issues if we have this mounting debt in front of us. I think it serves as a hindrance to not only the long-term economic stability of this country, but ultimately to some of the goals that my generation wants to pursue.

Johnny Arrowood

Hazard, KY

What we do now matters. We need to start those conversations. If we start listening to each other, we can bring about the change we want for the future.

Fiscal Leaders on Campus

Up to Us Leadership Network

The Up to Us Leadership Network empowers young adults to build a more sustainable economic and fiscal future for America. Launched in 2012 on 10 college campuses, the Network has grown to become the nation’s leading organizing vehicle for civically minded student leaders who are eager to mobilize their peers and communities and who care deeply about advocating for fiscal reform. With the support of our partners — Net Impact, Campus Compact, Volcker Alliance, Fiscal Challenge, and the Clinton Global Initiative — college students participate in programs focused on peer engagement, policy development, and leadership skills development. By providing them with educational opportunities, skills training, expansive networks, and platforms for action, we are preparing the next generation of American leaders to drive sustainable fiscal policy for decades to come.

Join the Up To Us Movement

Additional Programs

Fiscal-Interns-Federal-Reserve-Bank-of-New-York (2)

Fiscal Internship Program

The Peterson Foundation partners with think tanks in Washington, D.C., to provide interns with real world experience working on national fiscal policy.

High School Teacher Teaching

Understanding Fiscal Responsibility

First developed by Teachers College, Columbia University, this curriculum helps high school students to think critically about public policy issues.

fiscal ship

Fiscal Ship

This game makes the federal budget more accessible by challenging players to put the budget on a sustainable course, while reflecting their policy priorities.

Further Reading

More Resources
Woman shopping

How Does Inflation Impact Young Americans?

While the immediate effects of rising inflation are painfully visible, the long-term consequences are also highly damaging to the financial stability of younger Americans.