Building Generations in Policy Creation

Policy does not form in isolation. It reflects the priorities, pressures, and perspectives of the people shaping it, and that often means generational differences come into play. 

Different Priorities. Each generation brings a unique lens to policy. Older voters may prioritize retirement security and healthcare, while younger ones push for climate action and student debt relief. These priorities shape not only which issues rise to the agenda but also how they drive legislative change and civic engagement. 

Balancing Needs. Strong policy creation must balance short-term concerns with long-term vision. That means considering both what people need today and what will set up future generations for success. 

Different Messages. It isn’t only about what policies say, but how they’re communicated. Younger generations may engage through social media and digital platforms, while older ones may prefer traditional channels and in-person conversations. If messages don’t meet people where they are, they risk missing their mark. 

An Asset, Not a Barrier. For some, generational gaps can frustrate, but they can also sharpen policy. When organizations embrace diverse perspectives, they build policies that are more inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking.  

At Chase Gen Strategy Consultants, we help nonprofits, coalitions, and grassroots leaders navigate these realities by grounding advocacy in research, supporting agenda setting, developing policy that reflects real needs, and ensuring messages resonate across communities. Generational divides matter, and when understood well, they can become the foundation for stronger, smarter policy. 

If your organization is thinking about how to bridge these gaps in its own work, we would love to connect.