The good news is the region can do better. Way better. Young adults who have located here find the city affordable, genuine and cultured. They like the food, arts, sports and diversity. They enjoy Center City and other distinct neighborhoods. They appreciate the proximity to New York and Washington, and the ease of traveling elsewhere by train and air.
Philadelphia has a lot to offer, if young adults only knew what was here.
Innovation Philadelphia, a public-private partnership trying to build the regional economy, wants to spread the word. It has convened a "Creative Economy Conference" tomorrow at the new World Cafe Live in University City to brainstorm recruitment strategies.
The focus has been building regional affinity among students in the area's 80-plus colleges and universities. Economist Joseph Cortright of Impresa Inc., who collaborated on the Young and the Restless study, said that keeping even a few more of those students - keeping them from heading out to New York, Washington, Boston, Austin or the West Coast - could make a huge difference.
Local companies should offer more internships. Nonprofits should seek out college students for community service projects. The more connected students feel to the area, the more likely they will be to stay.
Once here, young adults need opportunities to serve on nonprofit and public boards. They want a chance to express their ideas. They seek venues genuinely open to change.
High school and college students who do leave are the best candidates to return. The biggest challenge will be creating a network to stay in touch. The right job opportunity may lure them back. The Internet is probably the best tool.
Innovation Philadelphia is wisely drawing on the advice of young adults to attract more young adults. Smart companies, such as Advanta, are lining up to listen. The more widely Innovation Philadelphia shares the lessons, the better off the region will be.
