On October 22, the Youth Forward MKE Coalition came together to celebrate how far we’ve come – and to lay the groundwork for what comes next. Under the theme Celebrating Today, Building Tomorrow, the meeting was a powerful reminder of what happens when young people and adults share decision-making power, learn from one another and lead side by side.

Youth Forward MKE’s summer coalition meeting on June 25 was alive with energy, purpose and momentum. With a goal of reconnecting, reflecting and refocusing, the meeting was more than a check-in – it was a chance to celebrate powerful progress, elevate youth leadership and align around bold new goals.

On March 26, Youth Forward MKE hosted a powerful gathering of youth and community partners, all committed to creating lasting change. With a focus on data and continuous improvement, the meeting offered an opportunity to reflect on the progress made, identify areas for growth and plan the next steps in amplifying youth voice.

Milwaukee Succeeds’ Autonomous Youth Council aims to build youth-adult equity by providing youth with the tools and opportunities to make their voices heard. Through placement at partner organizations, council members will be making decisions and influencing projects across Milwaukee.

In July, 26 young leaders from across Milwaukee began a journey of advocacy, empowerment and community-building as the inaugural cohort of the Autonomous Youth Council (AYC). Now they are poised to take their next big step: partner placements. Starting in February, AYC members will be embedded within various organizations across Milwaukee to put their training into practice.