Governor Newsom Launches New Statewide Initiative to Combat Crisis Among Young Men

Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom has officially launched a new statewide effort aimed at supporting the well-being of young men across California, as announced by the Governor Newsom Press Office. The initiative, undertaken in partnership with California Volunteers, seeks to create a "pipeline of service" to address rising suicide rates, social disconnection, and educational and economic disengagement among young men and boys.The launch follows an executive order issued by Governor Newsom on July 30, 2025, which mandated a coordinated statewide response to improve mental health outcomes, reduce stigma, and expand access to education, work, and mentorship opportunities. "California is facing a crisis of connection among young men, with rising suicide rates and deepening isolation," Governor Newsom stated previously, challenging men to "step up and volunteer as mentors, coaches, and tutors, and build a California for young men to grow and thrive."The new initiative encourages greater participation in volunteer programs and aims to support pathways for male students into teaching and school counseling roles. State agencies are also tasked with recommending strategies to increase young men's involvement in state career education and training programs. This comprehensive approach underscores a recognition that young men face distinct challenges requiring targeted solutions.First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom has emphasized that systemic barriers for boys, including a shortage of male role models and outdated stereotypes, necessitate specific interventions. The California Health and Human Services Agency is directed to develop recommendations to reduce suicide rates among young men and address gender disparities in behavioral health services, drawing on statewide data to identify service gaps. This effort builds upon existing programs like California Jobs First, which includes significant funding for apprenticeship and job programs, aiming to serve 500,000 apprentices by 2029.