ND4Y 2024 Week of Action's Federal Agency Learning Exchange

The National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy Reaffirms Its Commitment to Building Youth Power in All Political Climates

In the wake of a pivotal election season, the National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy (TYP Collaborative) reaffirms its unwavering dedication to advancing justice, youth leadership, and systemic change for young people across the United States, regardless of the presidential election outcome. As youth advocates, we remain steadfast in our mission to build an equitable future for all young people, particularly those from marginalized communities who continue to face systemic barriers.

"This election is a reminder of the importance of our work in the face of longstanding challenges," said Dr. Nia West-Bey, Executive Director of TYP Collaborative. "Regardless of political shifts, our commitment to uplifting youth voices, championing mental health, and ensuring economic justice is non-negotiable. Young people deserve representation and systems that reflect their needs and dreams, and we stand firm in pursuing that vision."

For young advocates, the outcome of the election only reinforces their determination to continue the work. “It looks like my job will get harder, but we will get through it and keep leading in a good way,” said Cody Rooney, a youth leader and organizer with A New Deal for Youth [[link removed]].

The TYP Collaborative has always advocated for policies and programs centered on youth power-building and equity, focusing on areas that include youth mental health, economic opportunity, and leadership. As the country moves forward, TYP Collaborative will continue to support young leaders in demanding policies that promote safety, well-being, and dignity for all.

"While elections bring change, our dedication to young people’s civil rights is constant," added Dr. West-Bey. "We will keep pushing forward, partnering with communities to foster an environment where every young person can thrive and contribute to a just society."

TYP Collaborative remains deeply committed to coalition-building and policy advocacy, focusing on systemic change that supports the full participation of young people in shaping a more inclusive democracy. Our work continues, unphased and motivated by the resilience of youth voices that demand a brighter, fairer future.

The National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy [[link removed]](TYP Collaborative) brings together policy, advocacy, and activism to drive transformational change by and for young people. Through youth-led policymaking and power-building initiatives, we address a wide range of interconnected issues and pursue multi-level policy change to maximize impact. By centering the experiences and vision of young people, we can achieve a liberated future rooted in abundance, community, and harmony.

A Warm Welcome to Our New Team Members!

Ashley Monterrosa, Power Building Strategist

Ashley Monterrosa is a power-building strategist focused on the intersections of mental health and justice. A native of San Francisco, Ashley has emerged as a dynamic educator, organizer, advocate, strategist, and storyteller. Known for championing youth voices—particularly those historically marginalized—she is dedicated to advancing youth mental health, justice, and community safety.

Ashley previously led initiatives addressing gun violence, state-sanctioned violence, and youth wellness through coalition-building and leadership development across California. Her work embodies a deep commitment to equity, exemplified by her ability to translate passion into actionable change through collaborative problem-solving, active listening, and strategic

leadership.

Ashley is also a board member of The California Endowment, Youth Over Guns and serves on Youth Advisory Boards for the California Children’s Trust and the California Coalition for Youth. She consistently demonstrates her ability to assess and navigate complex tasks, focusing on empowering youth and advocating for policy changes that meet their needs. Her approach, rooted in amplifying youth power and building transformative alliances, reflects her dedication to creating systemic change for future generations.

Luis Hernandez, Power Building Strategist

Luis is a power-building strategist deeply committed to youth organizing and advocacy. As a former New Deal for Youth Changemaker, Luis played a key role in shaping the ' Justice and Safe Communities [[link removed]]' demands, driving transformative policies that center community well-being. A native of the South Bronx, Luis draws from his lived experiences to champion youth voices and address systemic inequities impacting marginalized communities.

Most recently, Luis served as the Deputy Organizing Director at the Democratic Party of Georgia, leading statewide efforts to mobilize young voters. As the founder of Youth Over Guns, Luis spearheaded impactful advocacy that led to the passage of over 20 state laws, a federal law, and multiple executive orders addressing gun violence and public health. His tenure as National Director of Campaigns + Youth Leadership at The Gathering for Justice showcased his strategic acumen, executing a portfolio of work that included driving youth engagement, building coalitions, and leading initiatives to advance racial equity.

Luis serves on the Advisory Board at Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy's Center for Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Juvenile Justice. His work reflects a dedication to empowering young people and building a more just society for future generations.

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The National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy (TYP)

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