POLICY UPDATE 10-16-26

October 16, 2026 | Policy

News at NYEC

Registration Is Open: Dare to Dream! NYEC’s Annual Forum will take place in Cleveland, OH on April 12-14, 2027. Early Bird registration is available now. If you would like to present, submit a proposal by November 17, 2026.
NYEC is launching our second Youth Development Practitioner Apprenticeship (YDPA) cohort: We are looking for organizations that are interested in recruiting, training, and upskilling new OR existing employees in direct service roles. Fill out the interest form for more information.
Join the next NYEC Virtual Workshop on October 22: Unlocking the Potential of WIOA Title I to Help America’s Youth and Young Adults with Disabilities Access Jobs.

Legislative Branch

Wisconsin: The inaugural class of Milwaukee County Transit System’s (MCTS) coach/bus operator registered apprentices graduated this past summer. The 14-month apprenticeship program combines paid employment with structured training and mentorship from experienced drivers. The initiative was developed through a partnership among MCTS, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, with state financial support from a $387,000 Wisconsin Forward Grant.
Tennessee: Cleveland State Community College launched a new Mobile Training Lab. The mobile facility will expand access to training in fields including HVAC, electrical work, plumbing, construction and health care across the college’s five-county service area.

JFF and Britebound Survey Finds Voters Support Starting Career Preparation Earlier and for Stronger Action from Elected Officials: JFF and Britebound released national polling on voter sentiment about young people’s career readiness and what more should be done to prepare them.
Forum For Youth Investment Opportunity Youth Congressional Liaison Program (OYCL) Application Opens: The Opportunity Youth Congressional Liaison Program (OYCL) is a three-month paid fellowship for youth ages 16 to 26 to equip them with the skills and tools they need to directly advocate to lawmakers. Applications are due November 16.

OJJDP FY 2026 Multistate Mentoring Programs: This funding opportunity supports the implementation and delivery of mentoring services to youth populations that are at risk or high risk for delinquency, victimization, and going
into the juvenile justice system. Mentoring services can be one-on-one, group, peer, or a combination of these types. Applications close October 29, 2026.
BJA FY 2026 Second Chance Act Community-based Reentry Program: This funding opportunity will support community-based organizations and tribal governments to provide mentoring and transitional services for people returning to communities from adult correctional facilities and who are assessed as moderate to high risk for recidivism. Applications close October 30, 2026.