Who are OYYA?
Learn more about Opportunity Youth and Young Adults (OYYA).
“Opportunity Youth and Young Adults” (OYYA) is a term that’s been adopted by groups nationwide to highlight the strengths of young people (ages 16 to 24) who are not currently in school or working. Because they may not be involved in traditional educational or career pathways, this population is also referred to as “disconnected youth.”
OYYA are often mischaracterized in negative ways, but OYYA have incredible potential to craft productive, flourishing lives and to contribute to the success of our entire community. GHOYC is working to change the narrative and place the focus on the positive change OYYA can make when they receive the support they need.
In the U.S., 4.7 million youth and young adults are disconnected from education and work.
In Greater Houston’s 13-county region, there are 124,500 youth experiencing the widening opportunity gap—enough to nearly fill two professional football stadiums. In fact, 1 in 4 OYYA in Texas live in our region.
With the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic issues, we’ve seen an increase in the number of OYYA in our region. From 2019 to 2021, the number of OYYA rose by nearly 20%.
Because this stage of life is a formative time when critical skills are developed that impact future success, GHOYC is collaborating with young people, employers, and community partners to alter the way OYYA are prepared for post-secondary education and growing careers. Our partners are connecting directly with OYYA and creating community change to remove challenges and offer more pathways to bright futures. Together, we are increasing the pace and scale of change.
GHOYC is making a difference
enrolled in education or workforce training
secured to support OYYA work
organizations collaborating with GHOYC
Learn more about our impact and the strategies behind it.