Tulsa Launches Children’s Cabinet to boost youth mobility by 2030

A bold new initiative aimed at transforming the future for Tulsa’s youth is underway. City leaders launched the Tulsa Children’s Cabinet, a cross-sector group led by the newly established Mayor’s Office of Children, Youth and Families (MOCYF).

The goal: put an additional 15,000 children and youth on a path to economic mobility by 2030.

Created by an executive order from Mayor Monroe Nichols, the initiative brings together key voices from tribal nations, philanthropy, education, and workforce sectors to coordinate programs, policies and funding in support of local youth.

A Vision for Tulsa’s Young People

Mayor Nichols said the city must be accountable for the well-being of its youngest residents.

“I am a big believer that as a city, we have to hold ourselves accountable for the well-being of young people,” Nichols said. “This effort is our way of bringing together entities from across the city to leverage partnerships, collaboration, and creative problem-solving to create the very best outcomes for youth and families.”

What the Children’s Cabinet Will Do

The Cabinet will advise MOCYF and the Mayor, set priorities, and launch targeted Action Alliances in areas such as:

1. Early childhood development
2. Post-secondary transitions
3. Career readiness
4. Youth engagement
5. Place-based neighborhood initiatives

The Cabinet plans to meet every other month to track progress and adapt strategies.

Who’s Leading the Effort?

MOCYF operates under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Krystal Reyes and is staffed in partnership with ImpactTulsa, a cradle-to-career nonprofit organization. Reyes also chairs the Children’s Cabinet alongside co-chair Ashley Philippsen, the director of MOCYF.

“I am honored to be working alongside this dedicated group of leaders to create long-term positive impact for the youth of Tulsa,” said Reyes. “I am confident that we have started down a path to achieving the Mayor’s goal.”

What’s Next?

The Cabinet will continue meeting regularly and form working groups around key focus areas. City leaders say more information about MOCYF’s strategic plan and impact metrics will be available soon.

For updates or to learn more, visit CityOfTulsa.org/MOCYF.