illustration of california map with connected dots as networks and some dots having youth images in them

COYN

Improving Outcomes for Opportunity Youth

California Opportunity Youth Network (COYN) facilitates statewide communication, organizing, and policy advocacy to remedy systemic inequities affecting Opportunity Youth across California. COYN’s formation reflects the recognition that to achieve equitable economic and educational outcomes for youth and young adults it is necessary to address structural and systemic issues through policy and advocacy.

Our mission is to transform systems, policies, investments, and narratives to ensure all youth and young adults in California have the opportunity to flourish in adulthood.

Our Framework

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Current Programs & Initiatives

Filling in the gaps between policy and practice to ensure that good policy gets made and implemented COYN facilitates youth-led change for sustained, positive, youth-centered outcomes.

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Youth Fellows

Fall 2023 Cohort Nominations Now Accepted

COYN Youth Fellows are nominated young adults ages 18-24 that represent their local COYN member site. The fellowship is a two-month program where the Fellows focus on hearing from youth in their respective areas on what they want to see in their communities. The Fellows utilize the info they gather to make recommendations to best incorporate youth voice within our work.
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Policy Work

From WIOA to Tax Initiatives, COYN Keeps OY Interests on the Table

COYN responds to and promotes legislation and policies at the local and state level that support positive life trajectories for Opportunity Youth. Learn more about COYN’s policy successes and overall policy agenda for regulatory, programmatic, legislative and budgetary state policies.
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Local Action Guide

Expanding Workforce and Career Development Pathways for Opportunity Youth: A Guide to Local Action

The Action Guide provides an in-depth roadmap to expand access to and improve the quality of workforce and career development services provided for 16- to 24-year-old opportunity youth – defined as youth who are disconnected from both school and work as well as those who have experienced foster care, the justice system or homelessness.
illustration of california map with connected dots as networks and some dots having youth images in them

COYN

A Network of Networks

COYN connects and unifies California’s Opportunity Youth-serving organizations, including collaborative backbones, public institutions, service providers, advocacy organizations, and others vital to achieving lasting change for young people. COYN creates a channel for information sharing that fosters a common language and narrative across the field. To achieve this COYN hosts regular calls, semi-annual in-person meetings, and creates shared messaging tools and content.

Membership is free!

Our Members
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