Hidden Realities in North Texas: Why Our Youth Need Us More Than Ever

When people think of North Texas suburbs like Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, and Prosper, they often imagine growth, opportunity, and success. Yes, these communities are thriving in many ways. However, beneath the surface, there are hidden challenges young people face every day that most don’t see.

At Level Up Collective, we believe it’s important to shine a light on these realities; not to discourage, but to remind us why this movement matters. Here are some insights that might surprise you, and why they connect directly to the work we’re doing.

Even in Wealth, Youth Struggle with Homelessness

In Plano ISD and surrounding districts, the number of students identified as homeless or “in transition” continues to rise. This falls under the federal McKinney-Vento Act, which ensures support for students without stable housing. It’s a stark reminder that even in wealthy ZIP codes, many young people are quietly carrying heavy burdens most of us never see.

Poverty Exists Here Too

Plano is often recognized as one of the “best places to live,” yet about 7% of residents live below the poverty line (Census Reporter – Plano, TX). Within Plano ISD specifically, that number is closer to 8.4% (Census Reporter – Plano ISD). And when you zoom out, the Dallas–Plano–Irving metro division shows around 10% living below poverty (Census Reporter – Dallas-Plano-Irving Metro).

Where Transportation Ends, Our Work Begins

The Dallas–Fort Worth area may have more than 1,600 youth development organizations (CauseIQ), but access doesn’t always reach the youth who need it most. In suburbs like Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, and Prosper, public transportation is limited, the bus lines stop, but the needs of families and young people do not.

That’s where Level Up Collective stands out. We focus on the communities and age groups often overlooked — walking with kids as young as five through young adults up to twenty-five. We meet them where they are, not where the bus route ends. By filling the gap between resources and real accessibility, we’re not just another nonprofit, we’re a movement making sure no young person gets left behind.

Youth Falling Through the Cracks

Across Texas, many young people ages 16–24 are considered “disconnected”, meaning they’re not in school and not working (Texas.gov – Youth in Texas Report). This group often falls through the cracks, facing barriers that can lead to long-term struggles without targeted support.

Diversity Is Our Strength and Our Responsibility

Plano and surrounding suburbs are among the most diverse in Texas (Niche – Plano, TX). That diversity is a gift, but it also means programs must reflect the real-life experiences and needs of different communities. Inclusion and belonging aren’t just buzzwords here; they’re essential to reaching young people effectively.

Every background and every story matters.

Why This Matters for Level Up Collective

These insights remind us that our work isn’t just “nice to have”; it’s necessary. From mentorship to career prep, life skills, and community care projects, Level Up exists because behind every statistic is a child, a teen, or a young adult who deserves to be seen, supported, and given the chance to rise.

This is where you come in:

• If you’re a young person: know that this movement was built for you.

• If you’re a parent, donor, or volunteer: your involvement fuels real, lasting change.

• If you’re part of a local organization: we want to partner with you, not compete.

Together, we can break cycles, create opportunities, and write a different story for North Texas.