NextGen Community Builders - Helping Youth Succeed
About Us
Empowering Youth. Strengthening Communities. Creating Lasting Change.
NextGen Community Builders is a youth-led organization dedicated to turning ideas into action for safer, stronger, and more connected communities. Founded in 2024 by civic-minded students in Southeast Michigan, we believe young people have both the power — and the responsibility — to lead meaningful change.
Our work blends advocacy, education, and hands-on engagement. From spearheading traffic safety campaigns to helping youth launch community passion projects, we collaborate with residents, schools, and policymakers to create solutions that drive real impact.
In just our first year, our traffic safety initiatives have:
- Engaged thousands of residents through outreach at major community events
- Distributed hundreds of safety resources to promote pedestrian, bicycle, and driver safety
- Supported over $908,000 in local infrastructure grants through advocacy and partnerships
But our mission doesn’t stop at safer streets. We’re building a new generation of leaders — youth who are informed, compassionate, and ready to step up for their communities.
Our Vision
Communities where every young person has the skills, confidence, and opportunity to make a difference.
Our Mission
To inspire, equip, and mobilize youth to lead civic initiatives that improve safety, equity, and quality of life for all.
Our Team
Evan Zhen (Founder, President)
Evan is currently a high school student and the founder of NextGen Community Builders. As Michigan's 2024 National Civics Bee State Champion, he launched the organization to empower youth through civic engagement, education, and community service. Evan oversees all program strategy and execution. He leads major initiatives, directs program development, and manages partnerships and outreach efforts. His work reflects a strong commitment to creating meaningful, youth-led impact in local communities.
Jolie Zhen (Vice President)
Jolie is currently a middle school student and Vice President of NextGen Community Builders, where she actively supports the founder’s vision and leadership. Jolie supports program leadership and oversees communications to spark youth engagement. Her passion for public service motivates her to contribute to the community through teamwork, empathy, and strong leadership.
Volunteer Leaders
Celebrating a few incredible volunteers whose dedication and hard work drive our mission forward. Their commitment to supporting community outreach, organizing events, and raising awareness about our initiatives makes them the heartbeat of our grassroots efforts.
- Shlok Joshi
- Claire Bao