Generator Z was an ideas lab that launched by the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation in 2020 for teens and afterschool providers to reimagine the future of afterschool in Southeast Michigan and Western New York. Teens are the experts of their own lives and afterschool providers are the source of afterschool opportunities. Together, they drive the brightest possible future.
One thousand teens across both regions became Generators, sharing their stories and insights to generate the change they cared to see. Over 200 afterschool providers learned from Generators, turning insights into ideas. Nearly 100 received grants to bring these ideas to life.
Through this grant, we have created our own Gen Z program. The Gen Z Program is designed just for middle and high school students--a space where teens can connect, relax, and have fun. Whether it's playing games, doing yoga, working on crafts, hanging out, or just finding common ground with peers, Gen Z nights give teens a safe and welcoming place to be themselves.
This program is all about building connections, encouraging creativity, and giving youth a positive outlet, with an emphasis on mental health and navigating the stress of being a teen with support.