Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom convened national and state leaders in Sacramento last week to tackle rising disconnection, loneliness, and lack of opportunity among boys and young men in California.
The event aimed to build on the governor’s Path and Purpose Executive Order, a statewide initiative aimed at expanding opportunity, connection, and well-being for men.
Among the leaders participating was Sacramento County Office of Education Family Navigator and Wellness Coach Jordan Coleman.
Coleman emphasized the urgent need for targeted support.
“We have the knowledge and data to clearly see that we are failing our young men,” he said. “Our youth need leaders who are willing to hear them, understand them, and meet them where they are.”
Data shared at the convening underscored the scale of the problem.
Men in California die by suicide at more than three times the rate of women, are over three times as likely to die from drug overdose, and nearly one in four young men report having no close friends.
Additionally, one in nine prime-age men are not working or seeking work.
According to the governor’s office, California is taking a whole-of-government approach to address these challenges, beginning in education, expanding mentorship and service opportunities, creating stronger career pathways, and scaling behavioral health supports.
Since 2019, the state has created over 667,000 apprenticeships, surpassing the goal of 500,000 by 2029, and has engaged hundreds of thousands of men and youth in workforce and mental health programs. The Men’s Service Challenge aims to involve 10,000 young men in service and volunteerism by 2026.
Other leaders at the convening highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts.
“Too many boys and men are struggling with loneliness and disconnection, and that has real consequences for their mental and overall health,” said California Health and Human Services Secretary Kim Johnson. “Across CalHHS, we are taking actions to reduce stigma, expand access to care, and to meet men and boys where they are to find connection, purpose, and support.”
The gathering demonstrates California’s commitment to addressing systemic barriers for men and boys while fostering safety, opportunity, and well-being across communities. By bringing together government, philanthropy, and community organizations, the state is creating pathways for young men to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.