Measure of America codirector Sarah Burd-Sharps was asked to give expert testimony to the New York City Council’s Committee on Youth Services’ Task Force on Out of School, Out of Work Youth on November 22. Burd-Sharps apprised committee members of the key research data on disconnected youth, and discussed with the members the ramifications, potential and extant, of the disengagement of young people in the City.

The hearing was led by Council member Dr. Mathieu Eugene, joined by Council members Margaret Chin, Laurie Cumbo, and Darlene Mealy. Joining Burd-Sharps in providing the task force with valuable insight on the issue were representatives of key City agencies, including the Departments of Education, Youth and Community Development and Small Business Services, as well as leaders of community social service providers from across New York City.