Supports for Thriving
The Commission believes that to enhance American prosperity and ensure American competitiveness, the civic, education, and workforce systems must transform to create a collaborative ecosystem of multiple paths to thriving in adulthood and empower learners to choose the best postsecondary path for themselves. These strategies ensure that learners receive guidance throughout college, service, and work and that they continue to learn, earn industry-valued credentials, and advance civically, personally, and professionally.
High school student in Pennsylvania
“As long as I’m not homeless, I’m good. That’s really it ... Have a job that’s stable and I’m fine. That’s really it.”
Related recommendation:
Meet Learners’ Basic NeedsLeader of a community-based nonprofit organization in California
“If you’re doing something that’s entirely new, so you don’t have people who can help, you don’t have that exposure to what it looks like, and you have to support yourself and your family, and pay for everything, on top of school, you’re not even starting at zero. You’re starting behind.”
Related recommendation:
Advise and Mentor Learners, Alumni, and WorkersLearners’ basic needs must be met for them to be able to learn and work.
As places where learners spend a significant amount of time, K-12 and post-secondary educational institutions can play a significant role in connecting learners and their families with social services and material goods they may need, such as healthy food, clothing, and other supplies. Access to mental and physical health care is also key to promoting school attendance and lifelong success. These types of supports create environments that allow learners to thrive.
Related Promising Practices
CollegeBound Saint Paul
CollegeBound Saint Paul is a savings account initiative helping families build a strong foundation to invest in their children’s education and future.
- MN
- Financial Aid
- K-12 Educators & Leaders
- Philanthropists
- Policymakers
Braven
Braven is a career-accelerating experience that prepares promising college learners to secure a strong first job after college graduation.
- CA
- DE
- GA
- IL
- MA
- NJ
- NY
- TX
- Durable Skills
- Early Exploration
- Advising and Mentoring
- Employers
- Higher Education Leaders
- Philanthropists
Youth Mental Health Corps
The Youth Mental Health Corps engages young adults as near-peer mental health navigators in schools and community organizations.
- VA
- UT
- TX
- OR
- NY
- NV
- NJ
- NC
- MN
- MI
- MD
- KY
- IA
- CO
- CA
- AR
- Validate Competencies
- Early Exploration
- Basic Needs
- Higher Education Leaders
- K-12 Educators & Leaders
- Philanthropists
