We are Building a Movement
Of Young
People
The Alliance and our Network organize millions of young people to participate in our democracy as voters, organizers, and leaders. We focus on addressing systemic issues and creating a future that reflects young people’s values and priorities.
By Young
People
We believe young people should lead now—not just in the future. Our Network centers youth leadership, and our national team supports local leaders to carry out effective organizing in their communities.
For All
People
We imagine a future where our society honors every individual’s right to thrive, belong, and dream. Our organizing approach acknowledges the ways our struggles are connected and the collective power we build through shared progress.
Our Origin Story
Back in the day, the Alliance for Youth Action was known as the Bus Federation.
We began in 2013 as a coalition of grassroots youth organizations coming together to support one another, share resources, and learn collectively. Our earliest Affiliates named the national Network after one of their signature shared programs: “Bus Trips” that mobilized young people to knock on doors for progressive causes.
As our Network evolved to lead national issue campaigns and support locally rooted youth organizing across the country, we embraced a new identity to match our growing mission: the Alliance for Youth Action.
Today, the Alliance is a powerful voice for the largest voting bloc in the country. Grounded in racial, gender, and economic equity, we work year-round to support our Network, turning out millions of young people to vote and win on the issues they care about. We have also embraced our role as the largest youth funding intermediary in the country, channeling resources to strengthen and expand youth organizing nationwide.
The Alliance embraces its national role in the progressive youth movement with pride and purpose. We are committed to fueling the growth and sustainability of grassroots organizations to create a democracy that works for everyone, and a world where all people, regardless of background, identity, or zip code, can live in safe, loving, and thriving communities.
Our Unique Role
The Alliance is the only national organization that funds, trains, and coordinates youth-led organizations while also running complementary national field and narrative programs. We sit at the intersection of local authenticity and national scale.
Our movement succeeds because local organizers lead the work in their communities. Our strategy is built to fuel local power because real change begins at the grassroots and is sustained by the people closest to it.
Building Local Power
Young people’s core concerns—the cost of living, housing, education, and safety—don’t disappear after Election Day. When campaigns pack up and leave, our Network remains a political home for young people. As federal institutions fail to protect young people, local offices have become vital spaces where change happens quickly and directly. Young organizers are leading the way, proving that the most impactful change starts at the local level. The Alliance exists to support local power by amplifying youth narratives and expanding resources for young leaders fighting for their communities.
