Justice + Joy Publication: IMPACT (formerly known as “YPAC”) crafted, and implemented a research approach that included young parent-led listening sessions, individual interviews, and an online survey with custodial young parents across the country. A total of 89 racially/ethnically diverse current, and former young parents, who had children at age 17 or younger, and up to 23 years of age, participated. Current ages of participants were relatively evenly distributed with the largest group currently being 21 years or younger, followed by 26 and older, and then those 25 to 22 years of age. Participants were racially/ethnically diverse including Asian American/Pacific islander, African American, Latino, American Indian, multi-racial, and not disclosed. Roughly 50 percent identified as being involved with the child welfare or juvenile justice system. Finally, about one-third is currently part of a young parent program. The vast majority of participants in this research process were young mothers. The information that follows is the result of research conducted by young parents focusing on the challenges they face, and their ideas for change. The current members of the IMPACT Steering Committee are releasing this report which is an update of an earlier version created for internal purposes that guides the creation of a national advocacy alliance.
