ProgramsNYU Wagner Capstone: Public Policy (Fall 25' to Spring 26')ProjectsIRL14: Shaping Policy for Youth Mental Health and Safe Technology Use

Project Title: IRL14: Shaping Policy for Youth Mental Health and Safe Technology Use

Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County

Details
Project Title IRL14: Shaping Policy for Youth Mental Health and Safe Technology Use
Project Topics Child Welfare Community Organization and Social Action Political Organization, Policy Change, and Advocacy Research, Analysis, Evaluation Strategic Planning
Skills & Expertise Academic & Research Writing Advocacy Business & Proposal Writing Data Collection Policy Analysis Presentations
Project Synopsis: Challenge/Opportunity
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County, a leading youth development organization in the Pacific Northwest, are launching a pioneering initiative—IRL14 (In Real Life, Age 14)—to advance policies that limit social media access for children under age 14. The movement arises from deep concern about the adverse mental health impacts of premature and unregulated exposure to social platforms. While IRL14 starts with a voluntary community pledge campaign among parents and youth, the longer-term vision is to influence statewide legislation and establish national dialogue around responsible digital development for young people.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County seeks a student team to help research, shape, and operationalize the IRL14 policy campaign. The project will blend public policy research, stakeholder engagement, comparative analysis, and communications strategy to guide the launch of a realistic and impactful policy initiative. 
Project Synopsis: Activities/Actions Required
  • Research peer-reviewed and gray literature on youth development and social media use
  • Investigate existing or emerging policies (state, national, international) related to digital age access
  • Develop stakeholder analysis and identify potential policy allies and opponents
  • Analyze pathways for grassroots mobilization and legislative success
  • Create a roadmap for IRL14’s community campaign, pledge infrastructure, and policy proposal
Project Synopsis: Expected Results
 Success will be measured by:
  • Policy research and synthesis relevant to youth and social media
  • Identification of successful precedent models or proposed legislation
  • Development of an actionable and community-driven strategy
  • Realistic, politically sensitive roadmap for advancing legislation
  • Materials and messaging that reflect the values and urgency of the IRL14 campaign

Project Timeline

Touchpoints & Assignments Date Type

Program Kickoff

 Sep 12 2025 Event

Teams

Team Name  Project Name  Team Members 
No Teams Available