The YEF Institute's Municipal Network for Disconnected Youth (MNDY) is a nationwide peer learning community that focuses on older teens and young adults ages 16-24 who are out of work, out of school, and lacking strong connections to the community and caring adults.

MNDY is a resource that municipal officials, and those who work with such officials, may use to create and continuously improve partnerships, policies, and programs that re-engage older youth with school, work, and their fellow citizens.  Two principles guide the YEF Institute's work on disconnected youth:

1) Cities have a vested interest in helping youth gain access to opportunities and supports to get their lives onto a positive path; and

2) Cities cannot make sustained progress in this area without strong cross-system relationships with school district, nonprofit organizations, and state and county agencies that also interact with these youth on a daily basis.

Benefits of MNDY Membership: Peer Learning Opportunities

• MNDY News - a monthly e-newsletter that highlights city collaborations and strategies, as well as public and private funding and training opportunities.
• Audioconferences - city representatives and national experts speak about recent experiences.
• Leadership academies - occasional two-day intensive learning opportunities for municipal leaders and staff.  The first Disconnected Youth Leadership Academy created a "learning laboratory" atmosphere through its examination of Philadelphia's collaborations between the school, workforce, juvenile justice, and child welfare systems.
• Case studies of cross-system collaboration - The YEF Institute has published case studies documenting city-led, cross-system collaboration in eight cities, and will continue to develop resources in this area.
• Brokered technical assistance - YEF Institute staff and consultants field and respond to cities' technical questions and requests regarding cross-system collaboration.

How do I join MNDY?

Download the registration form and return it to Carlos Becerra by fax to 202-626-3043 or by mail (see the form for mailing address).  If you have questions, please call 202-626-3160.  Cities of all sizes may join this peer learning network. There is no cost to be a member of MNDY.

Newsletters

Power Point Presentation on MNDY

Municipal Leadership for Disconnected Youth »