Teen Think Tank Project Visits with State Senator Vin Gopal

A group of Monmouth County high school students is proving that civic engagement isn’t just for adults.

Teen leaders in the Asbury Park-based Teen Think Tank Project’s Social Action Lab recently traveled to the New Jersey State Capitol as part of the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey’s Legislative Day, where they met directly with policymakers, advocated for affordable housing solutions, and joined statewide efforts to address one of New Jersey’s most pressing challenges.

The students, who are members of the Teen Think Tank Project’s Social Action Lab Fellowship, have spent the past 12 months researching housing affordability, homelessness, zoning policies, and barriers to stable housing as part of their partnership with the Monmouth Housing Coalition and local housing advocates.  Their work has extended beyond the classroom and into community meetings, policy discussions, and advocacy efforts throughout Monmouth County and Trenton.

During Legislative Day, students met with elected officials and legislative staff to support budget resolutions and policy initiatives to expand access to affordable housing and strengthen communities across New Jersey.  In recognition of their commitment to civic engagement and public service, the students received a Legislative Citation presented by Senator Vin Gopal and Dyese Davis, his Chief of Staff.

The experience was made possible by the generosity of Affordable Housing Alliance CEO Randi Moore, who hosted the group and gave students a firsthand look at how advocacy organizations work with lawmakers to influence public policy.

The Teen Think Tank Project’s Social Action Lab is an 18-month public policy fellowship that trains high-achieving high school students to research complex social issues, engage with community stakeholders, and develop evidence-based policy recommendations.  Through partnerships with organizations such as the Monmouth Housing Coalition, students gain real-world experience addressing issues that directly impact their communities.

“Experiences like these demonstrate the power of informed, engaged young leaders to help shape the future of their communities,” said Teen Think Tank Project founder Matt DeSantis.  “Our students aren’t simply learning about public policy; they are actively participating in the democratic process and helping elevate conversations around critical issues like housing affordability.”

As New Jersey continues to grapple with rising housing costs and increasing demand for affordable housing, these young advocates are showing that meaningful civic participation can begin long before adulthood.

For more information about the Teen Think Tank Project and the Social Action Lab’s work in affordable housing, contact: