Coalition To Empower Our Future Launches New Ad

Coalition To Empower Our Future Launches New Ad
Spot Highlights the Complex Mental Health Challenges Students Face and the Need for Comprehensive SupportSpot Highlights the Complex Mental Health Challenges Students Face and the Need for Comprehensive Support

For Immediate Release
July 17, 2025
Contact: [email protected]

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As concerns about youth wellbeing continue to rise among parents, educators and experts, the Coalition to Empower our Future, a growing coalition that aims to convene a comprehensive conversation on the multifaceted and complex factors contributing to the youth mental health challenge, today launched “William and Keila,” a new ad highlighting young people’s perspectives on the state of youth mental health.

The spot features William Granillo and Keila Olvera, two high school students who are members of After-School All-Stars Los Angeles, a nonprofit that provides after-school and summer programs to keep students safe and help them succeed in school and life. After-School All-Stars is a member of the Coalition to Empower our Future.

“Young people are telling us loud and clear that their mental health and wellbeing challenges are complex and urgent,” said Glen Weiner, executive director of the Coalition to Empower our Future. “As parents, educators and community leaders, we must work together to help kids navigate the unique challenges of today. Programs, such as After-School All-Stars, are critical to providing a supportive environment where students can learn, grow and receive advice and guidance from mentors who care deeply.”

Script:

As a junior in high school, life can feel overwhelming sometimes.

Balancing homework, friendships and stuff at home isn’t easy.

More than ever, kids my age are facing anxiety and depression.

That’s why programs like After-School All-Stars matter.

They provide access to mental health support, connect us with mentors, and give us tools to succeed.

Mental health is complicated.

I’m grateful people are working to support students like me.

Help our parents help us, and find solutions to this challenge.

Watch William and Keila here.

About the Coalition to Empower our Future

Coalition to Empower our Future is a newly formed organization bringing together a range of voices to fully inform solutions that empower youth, parents, communities and society. The Coalition to Empower our Future supports solutions that are inclusive of the full spectrum of factors impacting youth mental health. Former Montana Governor Steve Bullock, former assistant secretary for the Administration for Children and Family Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services January Contreras, and former U.S. Representative Carlos Curbelo serve on the board of directors of the Coalition to Empower our Future. Dr. Caroline Carney, a board-certified psychiatrist and internist, is a health executive and clinician who serves as an expert advisor to the coalition.

To learn more, visit empowerourfuturecoalition.com or follow Coalition to Empower our Future on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

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