ABOUT YPA

Building a movement to restore the American Dream for young people

WHO WE ARE

YPA members at campus engagement event with snow cones

At the Young People's Alliance (YPA), we're a Gen-Z–led social change nonprofit working to restore the idea of the American Dream by expanding economic opportunity, affordability, and community power.

As young people, we've seen firsthand how our generation's interests are sidelined by our political system. Our mission is to empower young people to shape their future.

Through grassroots organizing, policy research, and direct advocacy, YPA gives youtable in decisions that shape our futures.

OUR FOUNDING STORY

The Young People's Alliance was founded by Sam Hiner and Mick Tobin when they were high school students. They jumped into advocacy after coming up with state legislation to make North Carolina safer for young people.

While they were able to contribute to existing advocacy initiatives, like ending child marriage and protecting teens on the road, they found that policy affecting young people was often being made by adults, without input from those who it would effect.

Sam and Mick realized the danger of this lack of youth power. Young people are becoming increasingly disengaged with a political system that does not address issues affecting them, posing a risk to our democracy.

YPA event with members gathered at a networking event

Sam and Mick started the Young People's Alliance to change this narrative, giving young people a real voice in the political process and encouraging long-lasting civic engagement.