Congressional interns at the National Museum of American History learning about Youth250.

Announcing Youth250: The Next Generation Reimagining America’s 250-Year Story

Apply by Nov. 9 for the first-ever Youth250 Bureau

Alex Edgar
5 min readOct 4, 2024

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How can we build a future we’re all proud of?

The U.S. 250th anniversary is fast approaching in 2026. Conversations around what kind of nation we are, have been and will be dominate the news cycle, campaign trail, college campuses and kitchen tables.

These conversations shed light on a path forward — one where young people take the lead. Young people have the most at stake from our future and the closest proximity to issues that shape our present. It’s not just national issues that are impacting their lives, but the way our complicated past has shaped the opportunities available to their generation in the present.

In response, Made By Us and partners nationwide have developed Youth250, a youth-powered initiative to ensure younger generations are included and represented in decisions about our national story. Applications are now open to join the Youth250 Bureau — 100 young advisors shaping our future!

Learn more and apply here by November 9: Youth250.org.

What is the Youth250 Bureau?

The Youth250 Bureau is the first youth advisory body of its kind in the U.S. — bringing together 100 young adults from all walks of life to help guide how communities and institutions across the country mark the U.S. 250th in 2026. Youth250 Advisors receive a stipend, participate in 20 hours of expert-led training and commit four hours a month to consultations, community-building, and skill development.

The United States will be more equipped for the future if our nation’s young people have a voice in decision-making rooms. The Youth250 Bureau is a model for that, tested in real time, that can pave the way for a national Office of Youth in the United States.

Not Just a Token Voice — They’re Experts

When the Bureau begins its work in January 2025, the first 10 weeks will be spent learning in group training sessions. Whether they’re looking to learn storytelling from Teen Vogue journalists or find out whether a Night at the Museum really happens at the Smithsonian, this period will be jam-packed with opportunities to expand their horizons. They’ll learn from industry leaders across sectors, gaining knowledge in consulting, human-centered design, futurism, and more.

And that’s not all — advisors will learn from their peers, discovering what it’s like to be a young adult across diverse racial, geographic, and cultural backgrounds. By the end of the training, advisors will be empowered to be experts advising cultural institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and corporations across the country.

As part of the first-ever Youth Bureau, advisors will have the chance to share their perspectives — and those of their generation — while writing, speaking, and creating as we approach 2026. Not only will this elevate their experience on a national stage, but it will also deepen their connection to both the history and the future of their community.

Who should apply?

This initiative isn’t just for history buffs or museum enthusiasts (though if you are one, we’d love to have you!). We’re looking for young adults from all walks of life — whether they’re a single parent, a college student, an artist, or an engineer, this is an opportunity for everyone to contribute. Our goal is to build a team that represents the full diversity of America.

And this isn’t just for people who consider themselves “patriotic.” There’s plenty to critique about the United States — whether you’re American or not — but patriotism isn’t just about waving flags. It’s about believing in the potential of this country and working to make it better. So, whether they celebrate the 4th of July or skip the Pledge of Allegiance, we’re looking for young adults who care about their communities and are passionate about shaping the future.

How it Works

Organizations, communities, and leaders will be able to access the Youth250 Bureau for advice, input and consulting services ranging from focus groups to materials review to content creation. The Bureau is free to access for nonprofit partners, and young advisors will be equipped and empowered to write and share about their experience shaping this moment.

Check back at Youth250.org in January 2025 to register your organization or community to receive advising services from the Bureau.

Youth250 Imagine + Incubate Workshop attendees at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, PA.

An Effort “Made By Us”

Youth250 benefits from the ideas, perspectives and input of hundreds of Americans. Earlier this year, we convened regional workshops that brought different generations together in iconic historic sites, in addition to several mini-workshops, “Brain Trust” calls and consultations. More than 100 people provided feedback to shape the Youth250 Toolkit, Bureau and upcoming materials and programs.

Key partners and supporters signed on as Champions to anchor this effort across industries:

  • Institute for Museum and Library Services
  • Teen Vogue
  • National Park Service
  • Smithsonian Institution
  • National Archives Foundation
  • American Association for State and Local History
  • New America
  • PBS NewsHour: Student Reporting Labs
  • Pulso
  • CoGenerate

Your story is part of this moment and we invite all those who want to join the movement to participate.

Why this Matters Now

Young people are under-represented in our democracy and our institutions. Just 7% of the federal workforce is under 30, yet adults under 30 are 17% of the population.

This upcoming anniversary represents an opportunity to change that, leaving a legacy of intergenerational collaboration and youth voice for future generations. Gen Z has big ideas for America’s 250th, and is ready to lead.

Regardless of your generation or role, there are opportunities for everyone to play a part in Youth250. Learn more at Youth250.org.

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