We all have a stake in America’s future. The good news is that our fiscal problems are solvable. We can choose a better path — a path of stabilized debt, stronger economic growth, and greater economic opportunities that help us thrive.  

There are many ways to take action. The Up to Us Leadership Network connects you with educational opportunities, skills training, and professional networks to join the next generation of policy changemakers. Find the program that’s right for you to kickstart your journey or chart your own path with the ideas below.  

Lead Your Community to Change
 Change starts locally. By engaging with peers, elected officials, and community organizations, you can begin the momentum necessary to create a stronger fiscal future. 95% of young people believe that collaborating with other young people has the ability to create positive change.

  1. Get involved in local government:  Attend local city council and town hall meetings where budget and spending decisions are discussed on a community level. Begin the process of change by interacting with local officials. Consider running for local office and lead change directly.   

  2. Start conversations:  Change can start through something as simple as a conversation. Creating a dialogue can raise awareness about how the national debt affects everyday life and then inspire action to build a stronger future. If you don’t know how to begin, we’ve got you covered with our Fiscal Advocacy Competition.
  3. Canvas for a cause you believe in:  A person’s words can speak volumes. Whether it be participating in conversations on X, advocating for fiscal reforms through an Instagram story, or handing out flyers and starting conversations in public spaces, you have the power to canvass and change the hearts and minds of your community.
  4. Volunteer your time:  Giving time can be the best way to interact with others, receive education on issues, and be an active part of a movement. Find an organization working on fiscal and economic policy issues that align with your beliefs. 

Education is A Tool that Leads to Action
82% of Gen Z go online to get informed about issues and current events. With news readily available in the hands of young adults, it has become increasingly important to create spaces to learn, listen, and talk.      

  1. Subscribe and follow: Finding a reliable source of news can help to solidify your ideas about what is going on in the world. Media news sources, influencers, politicians, celebrities, foundations, and institutions have an important role in shaping opinions.
  2. Never stop learning: Your beliefs are shaped by factors like your culture, education, and community, but it is also essential to look beyond that and hear out varying viewpoints. Develop your own ideas through research, collaboration with others, and fostering your curiosity. Craft innovative solutions for our fiscal future through the Fiscal Policy Challenge.
  3. Engage your community leaders: Educate yourself on who your elected officials are and where they stand on fiscal issues. Communicate with them your opinion on the decisions they are facing.  

Be Your Own Political Force 
As more members of Gen Z become eligible to vote, this generation understands that now is a time for action. Nearly 70% of young people are involved in a social or political cause, reflecting a strong interest in shaping the future and a belief in their capacity to do so.  

  1. Get in touch: Utilize your words to inspire change. Let your local officials and candidates know why fiscal responsibility is important to you and your generation, whether by mail, phone, or social media.  
  2. Increase voter registration: Help your peers ensure they’re registered to vote to empower and amplify your generation’s voice.  
  3. Mobilize the movement: There is strength in numbers, especially when it comes to an issue as complex and critical as our fiscal future. The moment calls for the leaders of tomorrow to take their first step today. Emerge as a fiscal policy changemaker with the Fiscal Leadership Lab. 

 

Take your civic engagement further, become a leader.

Get Involved