Vermont Education & Environment Network (VEEN) Joins Fund IRL to Support Youth in Real Life

Young people don’t just need less screen time. They need more opportunities to connect in real life.

Community-based supports, like afterschool and youth development programs, help create environments where young people build relationships, develop confidence, and feel a sense of belonging as they find their footing in the world.

But too many young people still don’t have access to these kinds of opportunities.

Cost, transportation, and limited availability continue to create barriers, especially in underserved communities.

At the same time, social media lawsuits are moving forward across the country. If these cases result in settlements, they could create a significant opportunity to invest in youth development programs at scale.

What matters now is how those funds are used—and whether they reach programs that support young people directly.

That’s why Vermont Education & Environment Network (VEEN) is part of the Fund IRL coalition.

Across Vermont and the region, we see firsthand the impact that hands-on environmental education, outdoor learning, and youth leadership opportunities can have on young people. Experiences that connect youth with caring mentors, their communities, and the natural world help build resilience, belonging, and a sense of purpose. Additional funding could expand access to these opportunities, ensuring that more young people—regardless of where they live or their family's income—can participate in meaningful real-world learning experiences.

We have seen this before. Without clear planning, large settlement funds can be redirected or diluted.

Fund IRL is working to ensure that any potential funding is invested in programs that provide real-world connection, mentorship, and opportunity for young people.

This is a moment to act early and shape what comes next.

Join the Coalition: FundIRL.org.