JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A series of workshops under the Jacksonville City Council’s Special Committee on Youth Empowerment is set to begin in October.
The committee, chaired by Councilmember Terrance Freeman and established by Council President Kevin Carrico, was created to enhance communication between city agencies and their partners, focusing on education, mentorship, workforce readiness, and safe community spaces for Jacksonville’s younger population.
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According to the city, Jacksonville is home to more than 18,000 people between the ages of 16 and 24 who are neither in school nor working.
Additionally, only 41.3% of adults in Duval County have an associate’s degree or higher.
“With many of Florida’s fastest-growing jobs requiring education or training beyond high school, helping young people bridge the gap from graduation to career is vital for Jacksonville’s long-term economic strength,” Freeman said.
The meetings, which are open to the public, will include a kickoff workshop to introduce the committee’s missions, followed by four themed sessions exploring each of the key focus areas:
- Education & Mentorship – Expanding programs that promote academic success, life skills, and civic engagement.
- Recreational Access – Strengthening partners that make parks/community centers safe and accessible for all youth.
- Workforce Readiness – Enhancing job training, apprenticeships, and postsecondary transition supports.
- Safe Community Spaces – Reviewing infrastructure, lighting, and security needs in coordination with the JSO.
Meeting dates, times and locations will be posted on the city council website at www.jacksonville.gov.