Boston Launches First Citywide Youth Needs Assessment: Youth Speaks Boston

Youth Speaks Boston Launches Citywide Survey for Young Residents

Youth Speaks Boston (YSB) is the first citywide youth needs assessment in Boston. It focuses on residents aged 14 to 25 after school and work hours. Mayor Michelle Wu announced the launch of YSB and its first phase today, an online survey aimed at gathering insights on the needs and priorities of young people in Boston.

The survey is anonymous and will run until January 2025. It seeks to identify gaps in resources and programming for youth. After the survey, structured peer-led focus groups will follow in early 2025 for deeper discussions on key topics.

Mayor Wu stated, “We want to hear directly from our city’s youth on what matters to them and where we could do better.” The aim is to enhance support for youth by connecting them with opportunities that promote success.

The Office of Youth Engagement and Advancement (OYEA) collaborates with Boston Children’s Hospital, the Boston Public Health Commission, and CHANGE Lab at Northeastern University. Together, they developed the survey to ensure a comprehensive approach to understanding youth needs.

The survey covers community belonging, mental health, programming, transportation, and safety. The information gathered will guide city investments and partnerships in youth programming, health, and well-being.

Pedro Cruz, Executive Director of OYEA, highlighted that this data will inform impactful changes for Boston’s youth. José F. Massó, Chief of Human Services, emphasized the importance of youth feedback in guiding funding and policy decisions.

The survey is accessible in multiple languages. Young people can participate through boston.gov/youthspeaks or via QR codes at libraries and community centers.

Once the survey closes, a thorough analysis will take place. A report with key findings and actionable recommendations will be shared in early 2025.

Boston Children’s Hospital and the CHANGE Lab express commitment to improving youth programming through this assessment. The findings will also assist in public health planning and community health goals.

Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health, urges all Boston residents to participate to shape the city’s health initiatives.

For more information about Youth Speaks Boston, visit boston.gov/oyea or contact the Office of Youth Engagement and Advancement at oynea@boston.gov.

About the Partners:

• Boston Children’s Hospital focuses on pediatric health and access to care.
• Boston Public Health Commission promotes health equity and well-being among residents.
• CHANGE Lab at Northeastern University tackles health inequalities through data-driven research.