people to employment and educational opportunities also results in a significant loss in productivity for the overall economy, as well as increases in government spending. According to a recent report from Measure of America, in 2013, youth disconnection resulted in $26,800,000,000 in public expenditures, including spending on health care, public assistance, and incarceration. (7) Disconnected youth, commonly referred to as opportunity youth because of their tremendous potential, can add great social and economic value to our communities and the economy, if given the appropriate supports and resources. According to the Opportunity Index, an annual measurement of opportunity in a geographic region, the number of opportunity youth, along with educational attainment and poverty rates, are strongly linked to overall opportunity in communities. When young adults do well, communities do well. (8) Despite their talent and motivation, many opportunity youth lack access to the training, education, and entry-level jobs that can help them gain the work experience and credentials needed to successfully transition into the labor market. (9) Lack of access to entry-level jobs can limit a young adult’s ability to accrue early work experience and demonstrate productivity and work readiness to potential employers. Labor market shifts have also limited opportunities for young people without a high school diploma or with limited postsecondary credentials. According to a 2013 report from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, by the year 2020, an estimated 65 percent of all jobs in the United States will require postsecondary education and training. (10) Summer and year-round youth employment programs that connect young people with entry-level jobs give youth the work experience and opportunity for skill development needed to transition into the labor market and prevent points of disconnection, such as involvement in the criminal and juvenile justice systems. (11) Evidence suggests that summer youth