CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb officially established the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth with an executive order Thursday afternoon.

According to a city press release, this “community-driven group” is meant to improve life for youth within the city.

“This is a bold step toward a future where our youth are prioritized, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential,” Bibb said in the release. “The creation of the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth is a reflection of our commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for our young residents, paving the way for new opportunities and resources.” 

This cabinet will work with other departments, community groups and others to address youth needs within the city. The city said this is part of its “broader vision” to improve the lives of its citizens.

“In collaboration with our partners, we are implementing data-driven initiatives aimed at addressing social determinants of health, improving economic mobility, reducing poverty, and creating a safer, healthier city for everyone,” said Sonya Pryor-Jones, chief of Youth of Family Success, in the release. “We are extremely proud of the hard work that went into the development of this cabinet and the insight we received from the community.”  

Geoff Canada, the founder and president of Harlem Children’s Zone, said the work to ensure children are set up for success requires collaboration and coordination.

“I applaud Mayor Bibb and his administration on the creation of the Municipal Cabinet for Children and Youth, which will mobilize resources around the city’s priorities for children and facilitate a holistic approach to serving children to drive outcomes,” Canada said in the release. “Cleveland’s children cannot afford to wait.”