In a USA Today editorial, First Lady Michelle Obama says the key to overcoming our current economic situation is involving all parts of society–including youth. Drawing on her background with AmeriCorps, she highlights a number of programs across the county that are empowering youth with jobs and opportunities.

And, she points out the willingness of today’s youth to step up to these opportunities– 61% of 13- to 25-year-olds say they feel personally responsible for making a difference in the world.

That statistic rings true when looking at a recent trend noted by the Wall Street Journal. With employment among 16- to 19-year-olds likely to sink to a new low of 31% or 32% this summer, many teens are bucking the system and creating their own jobs. From a barette-making business in Austin, Texas, to a cupcake-on-a-stick venture in Miami, these entrepreneurial teens have found a way to make some cash for not just summer fun, but also future tuition payments. To little surprise, their parents have been happy to support the idea.

tags: junior achievement, NFTE