Across the country, states, communities, school districts, and families are suing social media companies for knowingly designing their platforms to keep young people hooked—prioritizing profits even as evidence mounted that these designs were harming youth mental health and safety. Like earlier lawsuits against tobacco and opioid companies, these cases could lead to major settlements or other payouts meant to repair harm and invest in solutions for young people.

After-school, summer, and other youth development programs—activities proven to keep kids safe and promote connection and well-being—are stretched thin nationwide, leaving millions of young people without access. At the same time, community- and school-based mental health services are in high demand and require deeper investment to ensure all young people can access the services they need.

Social media lawsuits could yield once-in-a-generation funding for programs and services that research shows improve youth well-being and prevent harm. With this type of funding windfall, communities could expand their after-school and summer programs; mentoring and mental health services; arts, outdoor, and sports experiences; library enrichment; service opportunities; and other programs. And more young people could access the real life experiences they need to thrive.

We’re working toward a future where every young person has access to these programs and services—where money intended to address social media harms is invested directly in opportunities that help kids feel supported, confident, and connected. Simply taking phones away isn’t enough; it’s about giving young people more ways to grow, explore, and thrive. Together, we can turn social media accountability into meaningful investments in youth.