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THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

Keeping Youth at the Forefront

Where Important Conversations Happen, GENYOUth is in the Room.

From school nutrition summits to physical activity gatherings to national marketing stages, our leaders bring issues around youth health and well-being to the most important discussions in education, policy, and business. And we don’t just speak for students — we bring them with us. Members of our National Youth Council join us for one simple reason:  the people most affected by these issues deserve a seat at the table.

The Results:

  • Sharper programs
  • Stronger advocacy
  • Youth voice in the rooms where decisions get made.

Present, Engaged and Thriving:

The Power of a Wellness Culture in Schools

Shared Vision

Schools have a powerful opportunity to reduce absenteeism and strengthen engagement by focusing on what students say helps them succeed. Research from GENYOUth shows that when students feel respected and included, have opportunities to move, and are well-nourished during the school day, they are more likely to show up ready to learn. These aren’t extras—they’re essentials.

Together, we are advancing our shared commitment to making a culture of wellness a core part of every school day—so more students attend, engage, and thrive.

This includes the following practices:

1. Elevate Student Voice

Ensure students feel welcomed, respected, and heard—and engage them as partners in shaping school experiences that strengthen connection and engagement.

2. Build Movement into the School Day

Support daily opportunities for physical activity through quality physical education, classroom activity breaks, extracurricular programs, and sports that improve focus, health, and readiness to learn.

3. Expand Access to Healthy School Meals

Make reliable access to nourishing meals a valued part of every school day. Protect adequate time for students to eat, incorporate student input into menu planning, and eliminate stigma so all students feel comfortable and confident participating.

4. Strengthen Belonging and Relationships

Invest in positive adult–student connections and protect time for peer interaction—two of the most powerful drivers of attendance and engagement.

5. Mobilize National Support for School Wellness

Activate partners across education, health, business, and philanthropy to make school wellness a shared national priority—essential to improving attendance, advancing student success, and sustaining schools.

NATIONAL PARTNERS