Making adjustments in each life stage, coping with unexpected setbacks, or handling the daily stresses of life can turn a crisis into an opportunity for growth. Today's families are diverse, challenged, and many are at special risk. There is a critical need to use the collective strengths of individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to respond to the stresses faced by today's children, youth, and families. Minorities make up an increasing share of the population. Sixty-one percent of US children have both or their only parent in the labor force.
Fewer jobs provide earnings sufficient to meet basic needs.
Thirty-two million Americans have no health insurance. More than one million children ages five to 14 care for themselves during non-school hours. Half a million teenage girls give birth each year. More US teenage boys die from gunshot wounds than all natural causes combined. Half a million young people drop out of school each year.