Times reporter Troy Closson turns the spotlight on New York City’s youth, noting that entry‑level jobs have slipped and home‑buying feels like a pipe dream. In a 1 minute clip, he invites anyone under 35—and anyone who works with them—to share what keeps them up at night. The call for stories is open nationwide for journalists, researchers, and policymakers alike.

The pandemic’s lingering effects have tightened the labor market, leaving many young adults scrambling for gigs that pay enough to cover rent and debt. Closson’s outreach comes amid rising housing costs that outpace wage growth, making the dream of owning a home seem further away. His request underscores the need for data‑driven solutions to support this generation for employers, families, and cities.

By soliciting first‑hand narratives, the Times aims to illuminate the gaps between policy intentions and lived reality. The insights could inform municipal housing strategies, workforce development programs, and corporate hiring practices. Ultimately, the project seeks to translate individual stories into actionable policy that eases the path for New York’s next generation of workers and help secure a more stable future for.